
Over the years I have had the privilege to work with so many talented authors, editors and creators, but many have left the Christian industry to pursue other options in their lives. When the opportunity arises, I often ask my friends, "Why did you walk away or leave Christian publishing?" Unfortunately, their answers are the very same reasons why non-believers call us "hypocrites." I've come to the conclusion that we need to change the direction of our industry that "jades" so many lives.
- The Word of Jesus is clear ~ Let your yes be yes and no be no. - Matthew 5:37. Many of us say yes, when we really mean no, maybe, or I'll think about it. Many make promises, but never fulfill them. We must be clear in our abilities in what we can deliver and provide for others. When we aren't ~ we're providing false hopes and wasting our time.
- Jesus hates arrogance ~ Do not be arrogant. But be afraid. ~ Romans 11:20. When ministries and business grows, many of us forget how we got there. We become so consumed with our accomplishments, we let arrogance creep into our lives. God gives and God takes away. I believe that nobody is too busy to return a call or an email, especially in today's tech world.
- Author/Pastor Classes ~ I've been around long enough to see how we classify our authors and pastors. We value the person on how many books sold or how many members attend a Sunday morning worship. Don't get me wrong, as a Christian business, we do need to make smart decisions that will impact our growth, however, we need to lose our attitude on how we respond to those making a difference for Christ. Are they an "A" author/pastor or a "B" author/pastor? This should not be and the classes need to be eliminated! We should not base our time and efforts on those who we think are important, but treat everyone equally. Any author knows that it takes work just to get into the door of a publisher, let alone get published.
- Let us set the example in our Christian industry that will lead others to Jesus ~ Not push them away. We should never hear the words, "I was disillusioned or jaded" ever again. If we (the Christian publishers and ministries) are truly causing others to become "jaded" and walk away, then it's responsibility to walk away and let the pure of heart lead them back.