20/80 Rule

Warriors Arise: December 1, 2023

Matthew 6:1-4 “Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly."

It can be so easy to give and want the credit. Most of us enjoy the accolades. Personally, I like to be affirmed on a personal level, but I do not like to be brought out in front of everyone.

When we were little, it let us know we were doing the right thing. Most parents train their children through words of affirmation. We let our children know what we want do and our expectations. Then we let them have time to do what we have given to them to do. When we return and inspect what we expected to be done, there is either going to be further explanation so they do what we have asked the way was want it done or there is going to be a word of affirmation.

Too many times I have caught myself expecting things to be done and when they are, I miss the opportunity to let them know they have done very well. This has been corrected in my behavior over the years. I was really bad when I first joined my husband in ministry. I had been out in the workforce and expected people to do the job in the church they signed up to do as if they were working. Even though I wasn't paid by the church, it was a part of my work ethic. It did't matter is I was paid or volunteered, I was still to do my very best.

I had to realize things are different when it is a volunteer position. They aren't getting a paycheck so they may not fulfill the role as they have been asked. Sometimes they may not even show up for what they said they were going to do. I had to learn, in a volunteer position, there has to be a great deal more affirmation, noticing when people show up and affirming their efforts. I am counting on God to give them their reward but I still want to be a part of affirming their efforts and what they have done in the church for the people.

Working in the church tends to be a thankless job. You show up and week after week, you do what you have said you would do, but that doesn't mean there is going to be anyone that says thank you that week.

Many times churches will have a recognition Sunday. Most people who volunteer in church are not doing this to be noticed. If the once-a-year recognition was truly what people wanted then all the positions within a church would be filled. The 20/80 rule would not be in effect (20% of the people doing 80% of the work). We would have 100% involvement. They are doing this because they want to serve God, offer their gifts and talents within the church, and give to the people. They will get their reward from God.

Father, I ask for You to come and meet with each person who is actively volunteering within a church. I pray You would reward them with resources, relationships, and finances. I pray You would hear their prayers and answer them I pray for you to bless them beyond measure. I pray they would know You have heard them and You delight in their efforts. I ask for You to encourage them and pour You love upon them. You will not withhold Your reward. You will come through. They will not be in want because You are faithful in Jesus' name amen.

A Warrior in the Lord’s Army,

Veridee Joy Hand

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