¹ Now in the church that was at Antioch there were certain prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen, and Saul. ² As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” ³ Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away. ⁴ So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. Acts 13:1-4

How do you decide which is the next best new market to enter? Do you apply the systems of the world, or the ways of God? The approach you choose can make a world of difference.

The leaders of the Antioch church had been richly blessed by the Gospel, and they were hoping God would use them to reach new territory. Much like businesses today, they were unsure where to expand and who they should send on such an important assignment. Though they did not have the marketing data that exists today, they might still have been tempted to use the information they had and their reasoning to make the “best” decision.

Had they taken such a strategy, they would have missed God’s purpose and plan; and they would not have sent out their “agents” with God’s power. We are doing the very same thing when we make our plans and then ask God to bless them. Perhaps that is why our best laid plans are so feeble and full of misgivings. Why not try something different?

Marketplace Ministry Tip: Before you make a strategic decision using a worldly approach, make sure God has not prescribed a better way. If you have given your business over to Him, I am sure He wants to help. Whatever tools and processes you use to develop a marketing strategy, recognize that their primary function is to support your conversation with the CEO. Don’t allow them to come between you. Father knows best. Contact me, at rob@inlightconsulting.com, if I can help you make more righteous decisions for you and your company.

Your servant and His forever,