DEAR MINISTER Pt.7

FINANCIAL PROBITY MATTERS

Early in ministry, we weren't keeping record of income and expenditure. I felt it was not necessary since I was spending the money for God's work.

The mindset I had then was that God is the judge. He sees me. Since I did not take a dime from ministry money for personal use, I thought that was fine.

I discussed this with someone I revere in ministry. He counseled against it. He made it clear that accountability is first to God and then to men. He told me how important it is to have proper record and the benefit of accountability.

I took that counsel. Ever since, we have been accounting for every penny even to the point of allowing external auditors look into our books. Today, every ministry partner receives our yearly audit report of income and expenditure.

Not all ministers agree with this but I know it is right and proper to be open on money matters in ministry. For us, it has helped greatly in building the people's confidence about how we handle money.

Sometimes ago, we sent a letter soliciting for outreach support to a church in the U.S. We attached the most recent audit report to the letter just to let them know we shall account for monies spent.

They were surprised to see a ministry in Nigeria doing that. God used them to fund part of that outreach. Transparency and openness endeared us to them, especially the senior pastor.

Dear minister, in matters of finances, be transparent and accountable. Never assume the ministry money is yours. No it is not yours, it is for God.

Some dubious fellows say "God's money is for the man of God". That's not true, you are only a steward of it not the owner. Separate your purse from that of the ministry. Don't use the ministry account as personal account and vice versa.

Some might ask, "Are you saying the man of God is not entitled to welfare"? I have not insinuated such. Scripturally, ministers of the Gospel are to be supported adequately by the people they minister to and the church( 1 Cor 9:1-14). That is incontrovertible. God ordained it.

However, this must be done in an orderly manner. There must be a written policy on what goes to your welfare and agreed upon by the relevant authorities in your ministry. There's a scriptural precedence on this.

Under the old covenant, God specified what belongs to the Levites and priests from the offerings, gifts and sacrifices of the people. Everyone in Israel knew the tithe was for the Levites and priests. All that was due the priests were written and specified. They don't take things arbitrarily.

In financial matters, you must be guided. Let a written policy document guide your expenses. You're not different from a thief If you take what has not been given to you. You must have a healthy approach to money matters in ministry.

In addition, do not beg or demand for honorarium. You're not a ministry merchant. Never preach for money or gain. Stop selecting invitation because of money. Your presence on pulpits should not be for the highest bidder.

You will do well to hold adequate transport fare If invited to preach outside your domain. Do not depend on honorarium to foot your transport bills. You may be disappointed.