Filing cabinets…
The most underutilized, under thought of, under-appreciated weapon in the minister’s arsenal is the filing cabinet. Think I’m making this up? I cannot tell you how useful my well kept, well maintained, well organized filling cabinet has been to me over the years. Seriously, it has saved me from trouble when things have been wrongly communicated, helped make repeat events better, and even saved a few lives along the way. Not to over sell it, but I  have less organized ministry friends  borrow files from my cabinet.
I know this is not a sexy topic, but being able to store information, and then access it when you need it gives you a sense of control and confidence. Just like not being able to find something you need when you need it makes you feel helpless, and stressed.
This week Kevin and I have decided to help you by focusing on the fine art of filing (storing and accessing information). Whether you take some or all of our advice, by the end of the week you will be better prepared for whatever ministry throws at you.

Creating a System That Works

A filing system is all about being able to access stored information when you need it. Most filing systems don’t work because there is no reasonable way to access the information that you have put into it. If you can’t get to the information when you need it then what is the point in having a filing system at all?

In order to have a functioning system here is what you will need:
• A filing cabinet that supports hanging files
• Hanging files
• 3 Tab Manila Folders
• Permanent Marker

Here is how the system works.
The hanging folder will be your category.
The Manila folders will be you sub categories.
For example:
I want to create a file to store my notes, and minutes from meetings.
The hanging folder will be labeled: Meetings

The manila folders (which go in the hanging folder) will be labeled with kinds of meetings:
• Elders
• Committee
• Staff

Here is a helpful tip: When you label your manila folders write the category under it.
Your tabs should be labeled like this:
• Elders
Meetings
• Committee
Meetings
• Staff
Meetings

This way you know where to put the file when you are done with it.
Finally, remember to keep it simple. The categories should be filed alphabetically; no color coding, no using separate drawers for types of things- just the alphabet. Trust me; I have tried everything else, just use the alphabet.