My Struggle With Marketing

I've never thought of self-promotion as an admirable trait.  I always thought of it as the antithesis to the humility and character to which I aspire as a follower of Jesus.  Among many others, here are a couple of verses that have served me well through the years in many different situations.

Do not exalt yourself in the king's presence and do not claim a place among his great men.  It is better for him  to say to you, "Come up here," than for him to humiliate before his nobles.  Proverbs 25:6-7

For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted.  Luke 14:11

About a month ago, I was talking with a business coach I know about marketing.  Through the conversation I found myself sharing these two verses and realized that, if I was honest, these are the glasses through which I look at marketing. I'm not saying that I am right in that, it was just how I saw it.  Then he shared another verse with me.

In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds, and praise your Father in heaven.  Matthew 5:16

It was like a lightbulb came on for me!  I've been thinking about this verse applied to business all month.  Here are three insights.

1. Take off the lid. Not telling people about what we've done is like hiding a lamp under a bowl.  Take the initiative to put it out there.  It's wrong not to.
2. Get the word out.  We're not bragging about ourselves.  We're telling people about the good things God has shown us. Excellence matters. 
3. Improve lives.  We work to help pastors and staff thank God for a tool that finally helps them shepherd their people well.  It's not about us.

Walking the life-path of humility distinguishes a follower of Christ as a servant leader.  There is nobility and honor for the person who chooses this way.  But, when Jesus does something through you or your organization, as He has through our team and Churchteams, it is neither humble nor noble to keep that to ourselves.  Our God is worthy.  His light must shine.  

Last week our Text-to-Check-in feature was recognized by WFX with a New Product of 2017 Award.  In a few weeks we will releasing a huge new marketing initiative.  As we do, we would love to have all our raving fans help us get the word out.  Not because Churchteams is anything, but because Jesus is everything and together we can exalt and praise Him better.   

What has Christ done in your life or church that you need put out there?