Over the years I’ve come to realize that the phrase Business As Missions (BAM) means a lot of things to a lot of people. You are in a conversation and think you’re talking about the same thing, using the same words, when suddenly you realize that’s not the case at all.
So, how do we cut through the fog and find some clarity on what BAM is and what our personal place in the movement is? As I coach people through the process of exploring their calling in the marketplace, I find it helpful to ask 3 simple questions. You can remember them by the acronym BAM – Best, Aim, Motivation.
- What does your BEST look like? Or, put differently, what would need to happen in order for you to give God your best in this area? This question speaks to the issue of preparation. What training, experiences or coaching do you need to be truly fruitful in a marketplace context? Don’t just randomly jump in and expect success. Get ready. 2Timothy 2:15
- What is your AIM? Another way to ask this is “how do you define a win”? At the end of the day, how do you measure fruitful impact? Is your end goal job creation, addressing practical needs or social injustices, sharing the gospel, multiplying disciples, etc. etc.? Knowing what you are shooting for, and periodically evaluating yourself against that, is vitally important. Philippians 3:13-14
- What is your MOTIVATION? People get into BAM for a variety of reasons. For you, is BAM about how to access a “closed” country? Are you attracted to BAM as an alternative to traditional faith support models for financing? Are you seeking significance by serving the Great Commission through your occupation? There are numerous reasons, and many combinations as well, but one’s inner motivation will ultimately play itself out in the choices you make and approaches you take. 2Corinthians 5:14-15
These questions, although not exhaustive in nature, can serve as a great starting point as you begin the process of discerning your calling in the marketplace. Do you want to dig deeper? How can we help you?
