I was reading in 2 Kings 12:13-15: “The money brought into the temple was not spent for making silver basins, wick trimmers, sprinkling bowls, trumpets or any other articles of gold or silver for the temple of the Lord; it was paid to the workmen, who used it to repair the temple. They did not require an accounting from those to whom they gave the money to pay the workers, because they acted with complete honesty.” It’s interesting that the writer actually noted that the workman were important. Their skill had value that was worth paying before anything else was paid. We can learn something about people over technology.
People Over Technology
But in today’s churches, ministries, and nonprofits, leaders are happy to pay for technology and equipment first, and then pay employees just above the poverty line.
Listen to this carefully: I’d rather have top quality people and below level equipment, than state of the art equipment and below level people. People drive creativity, innovation, and success. Bells and whistles are nice, but I’ve seen too many clients over the years who spent all their money on great equipment, but refused to pay qualified people to run it.
Without great people, even the best equipment becomes a boat anchor. So to see results, invest in really talented and dedicated people first – then look at your equipment needs later.
This article about people over technology originally appeared here, and is used by permission. Phil Cooke works at the intersection of faith, media, and culture, and he’s pretty rare – a working producer in Hollywood with a Ph.D. in Theology. His client list has included studios and networks like Walt Disney, Dreamworks, and USA Network, as well as major Christian organizations from Voice of the Martyrs, The Museum of the Bible, The Salvation Army, The YouVersion Bible app, to many of the most respected churches in the country.
