Say No With A Smile

Say No With A Smile. Peter Drucker the great economist, author and educator, said, "Throughout history, it was the super achievers - and only the super achievers - who knew when to say "NO" They all had a sense what to reach for." Life, business and ministry is fraught with decisions and choices. Everyone has an idea or plan of some kind which fit into the mission God has prepared for you. Others will draw you off target. Not long ago I was target shooting with a bow and arrow. After a number of tries I finally hit the bulls eye . I just knew that was "right". As I viewed the target I noticed the deep marks the arrows had made that actually hit the target. But the only ones that really counted were those in the the small middle circle. It is easy to be drawn to the less important or the important and lose focus of what God has called you to. Our everyday interests sometimes take us off focus. Beth and I often stop and ask ourselves a very potent question... What does that have to do with our call to reach the boys and girls for Jesus? What does that have to do with our call . It is easy to wrap ourselves in politics and even other worthy causes. But the question we must ask ourselves is...is this what I was called to do - does this fit my life's mission statement? The great Billy Graham was offered political positions and even offered great sums of money to run for president. He was also given many opportunities to start universities in His name, but he kept His focus on his core mission and beliefs. That was to share the gospel and see transformed lives. Our mission: Child Evangelism Fellowship turns 80 years old this next month and most organizations that old have moved away from the foundation they were founded on. Some are no more. Child Evangelism Fellowship still has its foundational focus after all these years. In fact it continues to grow! Here it is; 1. Evangelize Children ages 4-14 2. Disciple them in the Word of God 3. Establish them and their families in a Bible believing church for growth This is not to say that the mission organization hasn't been approached to get directly involved in feeding, backpacks for the kids, clothing programs and so many other worthy causes for the children. Most of which are fabulous programs and very needed... but, "NO" with a smile is the appropriate response along with great encouragement and prayer support. The mission of CEF is to evangelize, disciple and establish the children and their families in the Bible believing churches. There are other organizations that specifically do these other things as their call. They are better equipped and since it is their core, the finances they raise go specifically to do this and they do it so well. Leadership is being able to identify and stay focused on your mission / cause. There are always going to be distractions and some are going to be very "good", but a true leader knows when to say no. If you are going to lead, lead. 1. Your vision should be on the tip of your tongue and expressed in every situation and with every personality you meet. 2. You should feel a sense of urgency and lead with that in mind. 3. You need to expand your base of help to accomplish the mission. 4. Lead with resolve. 5. Work hard and work smart. 6. Say "No"when it is necessary, but say it with a smile and with great encouragement.