You ask them.
That sounds overly simple, but many pastors will spend months talking around a major ask because they're afraid to actually make one.
They'll explain the vision.
Share the need.
Talk about the campaign.
Describe the opportunity.
And then never ask.
The high-capacity person leaves thinking, I'm pretty sure he wanted something from me, but I'm not sure what.
Clarity is kindness.
If you believe someone has the capacity, the relationship is strong, the vision is clear, and the opportunity aligns with what God is doing in their life, there may come a moment when you need to say:
“Would you prayerfully consider a gift of $1 million toward this vision?”
Then stop talking.
Don't negotiate against yourself.
Don't immediately say, “Or $500,000…or whatever you're comfortable with.”
Don't panic because the room became quiet.
Silence is okay.
You just asked someone to make a significant spiritual and financial decision.
Give them room.
The number shouldn't come out of nowhere.
By this point you should understand their story, their heart, their interests, their capacity, and their relationship with God.
You should also be able to explain exactly what that level of generosity could accomplish.
People rarely become inspired by a large number alone.
They become inspired by the impact attached to the number.
“This gift could allow us to...”
That's where vision becomes tangible.
And here's another important principle:
Never apologize for the size of the opportunity.
If the vision genuinely requires extraordinary generosity, somebody will have to be invited into extraordinary generosity.
You're not demanding.
You're inviting.
You're not trying to extract money.
You're helping someone consider a kingdom opportunity.
And their answer belongs to God.
If they say yes, celebrate.
If they need time, give it.
If they say no, love them exactly the same.
The courage isn't getting someone to say yes.
The courage is making a clear, faith-filled invitation while remaining completely surrendered to God regarding the answer.
That's how you ask someone for $1 million.
Clearly. Prayerfully. Relationally. And without fear.