My heart drops the moment someone says, “Just buy my …”

I see hundreds of Facebook reels and advertisements to help my faith. I have sat through dozens of free webinars to help my Church. Hundreds of social media posts, Podcasts, emails, and blogs come across my screen with promises of growth, transformation, and a better future.

And then they drop the hammer. All you have to do is buy my book, App, video series, or product. Sign up and get your subscription today. Pay this one-time fee. Make a required donation of at least twenty-five dollars. Join us for this fantastic conference for the low price of ninety-nine dollars. 

Can I say, as a Christian, and especially as a Christian leader, that I hate the amount of people trying to sell their stuff to me?

I know people are trying to make money, and if they can do it and help the kingdom of God, where is the harm in that? These people are providing a service and need to feed their families. I get how it happens, but can I stand up and say I hate it?  

Perhaps it is just me, but my trust grows when someone says, “Let me help you,” and no strings are attached. They want to see the kingdom grow, not their brand or market share.

As a local Church pastor, I am blessed that the Church I lead gives me enough money to pay all my bills and be generous. But I did not enter the ministry for the money, and I do not do it for personal gain. I don’t have any products to sell, and I want to give away everything I possibly can. I strive to make my most significant question, “How can I help the kingdom of God,” and not “How much should I charge for this.”

I am a pastor in a small Church in a small town, and I sincerely appreciate everyone who has helped me through the years out of the goodness of their heart. I could never afford to pay for so many things, but kind mentors and Church leaders blessed me. And I especially appreciate every volunteer who steps up each week to serve the Lord in any Church worldwide. The kingdom of God is built on people who willingly serve out of their faith in Jesus alone. They are not for sale, and they deserve our praise.