The Broke Church Mentality

T. Harv Eker wrote a fascinating book that describes the psychological difference between the rich and the poor. Here are a few of the 17 differences he notes:

• Rich people believe: “I create my life.” Poor people believe: “Life happens to me.”
• Rich people are committed to being rich. Poor people want to be rich.
• Rich people think big. Poor people think small.
• Rich people focus on opportunities. Poor people focus on obstacles.
• Rich people admire other rich and successful people. Poor people resent rich and successful people.
• Rich people choose to get paid based on results. Poor people choose to get paid based on time.
• Rich people focus on their net worth. Poor people focus on their working income.
• Rich people constantly learn and grow. Poor people think they already know.

While Eker is clearly addressing individuals, there are some interesting comparisons here that absolutely apply to the church.  I am convinced that a TON of churches operate with a BROKE mentality.  It’s so much more than the amount of the offering or how much people are giving… it’s a MINDSET.

• Broke churches believe their people or their area is different and that’s why giving isn’t good.
• Broke churches are content with the status quo.
• Broke churches focus on paying the bills and meeting the budget.
• Broke churches are always asking for discounts or the church planter special.
• Broke churches focus on the amount of last week’s offering.
• Broke churches are stuck in react mode.
• Broke churches refuse to learn and grow.

I’m talking about an attitude, and it has nothing to do with having more money in the
church bank account.  If your church has a broke mentality, guess what…you’re going to
be broke!  It’s time to attack that mindset and intentionally install systems that will lead to a
healthy financial culture.