own·er·ship
ˈōnərˌSHip/
noun
noun: ownership; plural noun: ownerships
the act, state, or right of possessing something.
“the ownership of land”
synonyms:possession, right of possession, freehold, proprietorship, proprietary rights, title
“there is no question of ownership”
Ownership is one of those things that transcends cultures, economies, and nationalities. No matter where you are from, you understand the desire to own something. When it comes to businesses, the owners or entrepreneurs call the shots; they earn some level of respect from the people who work for them. Even if they are bad leaders, credit is due them, because they had a dream, they took a chance, and they built something from nothing. They bear the responsibility for whatever it is they own.
In the non-profit world, ownership is a completely different animal.
When filling out forms on behalf of Hope Women’s Centers, there is frequently a field that asks for the name of the “owner”. I always smile to myself and consider just writing “God” in the blank. I am reminded frequently that no one owns Hope. I can very easily act as if I am the owner. The Board of Directors understands that their role does not include ownership or “playing God” with the ministry. All of the members of our leadership team recognize that we do not work miracles for God; He does them for us! Some days, we might feel like we own the problems that we are facing, but once again, God’s word reminds us “Do not be afraid…for the battle is not yours, but God’s.”
This article should resonate with every leader of every non-profit organization in the world. It is hard to be the leader when you are not the owner. Today, I dedicate this prayer and share it with non-profit leaders everywhere:
“God, remind me daily that I am not fighting this battle for you; the battle is yours. You have called me to lead for such a time as this, but I recognize that it isn’t my organization; it’s yours. You have given me people to help, but they are your people, not mine. I chose them and I organize their efforts, and for the most part, they have agreed to follow me – but they belong to you. They deserve more and often they expect more of me than I can give them.
I know that the Kingdom is yours, but it seems like we never have enough resources! We have big dreams, but small bank accounts, so there is always an element of frustration that I have to submit to you. Knowing you own everything, our needs must seem small to you.
Teach us to have more faith. Show me where to look for what we need, how to recognize it when I find it, how to get it, how to use it, and how to be content with what your provide. It’s all yours.”
As the dictionary definition example says at the top of this article, at Hope Women’s Centers, “there is no question of ownership.”
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