There are some things that you value more than others.  Perhaps you value a Chevy over a Ford, Coke over Dr. Pepper, or perhaps Grape Jelly over Strawberry.  Whatever the case may be, you have personal values that reflect who you are as a person.

In the same way, every Organization has certain critical Values that are unique to each one.  For some, it is to be extremely profitable and for others it is a deep desire to change the world.  Others seek to provide a great service that satisfies an extreme need in a particular country, regardless of any expected profits.  Whatever results from these sets of Values is the direct objective needed to make these values a tangible reality.

The Church, however, is by nature very different from secular organizations.  It is God’s idea and His creation.  Humans didn’t come up with it and they certainly can’t build it by themselves.  Therefore, its Values are decided by what God, its Creator, values.  If God values it, then the Church should and if God doesn’t, then the Church shouldn’t either.  If we are only concerned with God’s values, then we must look to His word alone, as it alone dictates to us what He desires and values.  God, through Scripture, determines our values.  The emotions, desires, or any other thing that comes from the depraved human mind and heart simply do not.

What and whose values do your ministry articulate to the outside world?  The answers may just surprise you…