Building Support Through Relationships: A Look at Friend Raising by Betty Barnett
When entering the world of missions, one of the biggest challenges is securing long-term financial and emotional support. In her book Friend Raising: Building a Missionary Support Team That Lasts, Betty Barnett offers a fresh, relational approach. Rather than focusing on traditional fundraising, Barnett highlights the importance of godly relationships and community-based giving.
A Relationship-Centered Approach
Barnett believes that support should come from healthy, trusting friendships grounded in shared faith and values. In Friend Raising, she presents a biblical model of support that encourages generosity, transparency, and open communication. Instead of just asking for money, missionaries are encouraged to invite others into a shared spiritual journey.
This approach is especially helpful for those uncomfortable with financial appeals. Barnett helps readers see that inviting people into mission work is not begging—it’s offering them a chance to participate in something meaningful. She challenges common fears around support-raising and reframes it as a ministry opportunity.
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Biblical Foundations and Practical Principles
One of the book’s strengths is its strong scriptural base. Barnett uses examples from both the Old and New Testaments to show how God’s people supported one another. She emphasizes the importance of trust in God’s provision while also calling for active participation from those in ministry.
The book offers practical advice on building and maintaining a support team. Topics include writing support letters, hosting small gatherings, and building a prayer base. Barnett also stresses the importance of regular updates and showing gratitude.
By following these steps, missionaries can develop long-term partnerships that go beyond finances. The aim is to cultivate relationships built on mutual care, spiritual unity, and shared vision.
How It Compares to Funding the Family Business
While Friend Raising emphasizes relational and spiritual aspects, Myles Wilson’s Funding the Family Business takes a more structured and analytical approach. Wilson focuses on strategy, planning, and the organizational side of building a sustainable support base. His book is especially useful for ministry teams or agencies that need clarity on processes and goals. Both books complement each other well—Barnett addresses the heart, while Wilson handles the framework. Together, they give a more complete picture of effective support-raising in ministry.
Challenges and Encouragements
Barnett acknowledges that building a support team is not easy. There will be seasons of discouragement and times when support feels uncertain. However, she urges readers to remain faithful and prayerful throughout the journey.
Friend Raising provides encouragement for those who feel isolated or overwhelmed. Barnett reminds readers that they are not alone. God often moves through networks of friends, families, and churches to provide exactly what’s needed.
The stories shared in the book show how consistent relationship-building leads to lasting support. Many missionaries have used her principles to sustain years of service in the field.
Why This Book Matters
Friend Raising continues to be a relevant and powerful resource for people entering full-time ministry. Its focus on relationship over transaction helps reshape how support is viewed and gathered. For many, this shift makes the process feel more aligned with their values and calling.
The book remains widely recommended by mission organizations and Christian leaders. Its message empowers believers to approach support-raising with faith, confidence, and humility.
Anyone considering long-term ministry or missions can benefit from Barnett’s insights. Friend Raising not only provides guidance—it also offers a hopeful and deeply spiritual framework for building a sustainable support network.
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