11 Jan
Leaving LifeWay, joining Generis
Leaving LifeWay Christian Resources is not an easy thing to do. It has been a place where I have grown personally and professionally. In the midst of my work with Envelope Service, I stumbled upon this larger meta-conversation of church funding. I had no idea this would be the conversation God had uniquely designed and prepared me to participate and contribute.
On Feb 1, I will join Generis, a consulting firm specializing in cultivating cultures of generosity and the practice of church funding. I’m honored they have opened this door of opportunity to me and were exceptionately patient with me as I discerned the will of God.
I am NOT leaving LifeWay because…
I’m in trouble.
About to be fired.
Frustrated.
OR any other negative reason you might come up with. (There is no conspiracy behind this decision. Just God’s hand moving me into a more specialized role.)
I am joining Generis because…
They graciously offered an invitation.
God’s direction is clear.
I want to refine my skills and passion as I specialize.
AND this is work that results in funding the Kingdom. (Does it get any better than that?)
I will always be grateful to all the people at LifeWay who have encouraged and challenged me along the way. A special thanks goes to Mark King and Ron Chandler who gave me permission to step out of the box and be creative. LifeWay will always hold a special place in my heart. I look forward to continuing to build upon the relationships that began at One LifeWay Plaza as I step forward into God’s direction.









Congrats my friend!
Thanks, Byron. You are a great friend.
The only regret I have in hearing this is that I did not think to offer you a position with The Charis Group first! I look forward to having you in our industry that I think of more as a means of unique ministry not simply a business. While competitors, I have the highest regard for Generis and wish you God’s best until you compete head to head with us! Seriously, all the best!
Thanks, Mark. I’ve learned a lot from you and look forward to continue being friends. Anxious to hear what your next book will be about!
All the best to you in your new endeavor! New opportunities are such a blessing.
Doug in Arkansas
I agree. And this one especially so. Blessings!
Congratulations! I hope you will not have to move away! I wish I could hear God’s plan for me that clearly. It probably has something to do with my fingers being in my ears all the time! hahaha
Anyway, all the best to one of the best! I know you have a very bright future and I’m proud to know you.
Thanks! Nope. Get to stay right here in Nashville. That was a key part of the decision-making process.
Just a note. It took 10 years for me to hear God clearly. There is hope. Just give it time!
Ben,
I hope you will be able to continue with your relationship with SDA. You have been a real asset and a personal blessing in my life.
Ed
Thanks, Ed. I sincerely hope that I can continue to work with you and SDA. I have learned so much. All of you have been very affirming and helped me discern God’s call. I appreciate your kind words and look forward to finding ways to work together.
Blessings!
You have been good for Lifeway and them for you. It was a win/win situation. You’ll do well wherever you are. You hav a lot to offer!
Fun days ahead.
Ron
I really appreciate that! “Win/win” is a good description. LifeWay has been key in helping me discover this passion. I’m grateful for all the friendship I made and hope to continue to build on them moving forward. I’m especially grateful our paths have crossed. You have been a great listener and encourager. Glad we’re going to be able to stay close in proximity to one another. I still have much to learn from you!
What a great blog from a great story! I love seeing how you welcomed God into your job situation and are following Him relentlessly. Blessings await you as you embark on this new journey. Thanks for sharing it.
Lyn
Thanks Lyn! God is good. All the time.
Congrats Ben!
It surely makes sense, given the very unique focus you have been developing. I’ll be very interested to keep tabs on you.
Keep up the good work!
Scott
Thanks, Scott. This move will allow us to work together more collaboratively too. Exciting days ahead!
Congratulations! Generis is a great group and you’ll enjoy working with Jim Sheppard, Brad Leeper and others I have come to know over the last several years. Looking forward to meeting you too on a future project!
Thanks, Jody. I agree. One of the most impressive aspects of Generis is the people. I’m proud to be in such good company and look forward to learning from them!
Congrats Ben and the reputation that Generis has in the industry with your background will be a great fit and will in no doubt expanded the Kingdom in encouraging and mentoring believers in the Gift of Giving!! Wish you the best and look forward to hearing good things!!
Michael Doddridge
Regional Sales Manager
National Church Purchasing Group
Thank you so much! I appreciate your encouragement.
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