This beautiful bird spent no time planning to fly. I got a little too close to her and she just flew. (Look closely to see the rare yellow tail feathers.)

As ministers, we spend a lot of time reminding others that there is no need to do anything to prepare to accept Jesus as Lord. "Come as you are and meet Him—today."

It's interesting, then, to see leaders trying to "get things right" prior to starting any formal marketing program.

"Our marketing is a mess right now. Let us get some things fixed before we get started."

"We just don't have a message yet. We don't know how to attract people to our church."

"Marketing seems too complicated to me. I want to understand it more clearly before we get started."

Marketing lethargy is a common malaise. It's easier to do nothing than to do something. When I hear procrastination language, I can only conclude that the leader does not yet believe in their own message.

Whether we're marketing a book, a meeting or a church service, we must begin at the beginning. We care about the needs of people and we are called to do something about it. Our heart is to change lives throughout eternity. Why would we delay such a message?

I want to show up every day prepared to help people with the message God has given me. I believe He has planted a marketplace message deep within me. I'm called to help others spread the message God has given them. God led me through formal education and significant life experiences SO THAT I may help others.

My message to leaders is that "I can help you deliver the right message, to the right people, at the right time, with excellent stewardship of resources." I want to equip the equippers.

I don't expect to work with people who already have marketing figured out. I only want to work with people who come seeking help to craft their message, deliver it to the right audience and be there when people need them. I want to do that with proper management of financial, time and human assets.

I show up every day through this newsletter to offer help. I trust the process of working hard to be there with consistency.

Meet your marketing plan—today:

Develop your core message for people who need you, your product or your service.

Build an email list of people who need you. Add to the list every day.

Publish your message of hope every day. Say it. Say it again in a new way. Do this until Jesus returns.

Fly with the grace already given to you.

Dr. Steve Greene is the publisher and executive vice president of the media group at Charisma Media and executive producer of the Charisma Podcast Network. His book, Love Leads: The Spiritual Connection Between Your Relationships and Productivity, is now available.

Leaders, Dr. Greene wants to help you understand the spiritual connection between relationships and productivity. Read his new blog, here.

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Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.

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