"God's Economy"
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "couch potato" who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy who loves to be on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Showing posts with label Generousity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Generousity. Show all posts
Friday, March 23, 2012
Saturday, March 3, 2012
3.3.12 "'Giving' or 'Obedience'"
"'Giving' or 'Obedience'"
Leviticus 27:14-Numbers 1:54
Mark 11:1-26
Psalm 46:1-11
Proverbs 10:23
I remember one Christmas when we were kids we wanted more presents. It was so long ago I can hardly remember the details, but I know i took some of my brothers toys and I wrapped it up for him so we'd have more presents. It was fun opening more boxes, but I guess there's some level of disappointment that someone went out of their way to give you what was already yours.
Leviticus 27 spells out the process for the Israelites to give special offerings to the Lord. There is a guideline for how to give gifts of land, fruit, grain, homes, and animals. There is amazing detail to the method of how things are valued, redeemed, and what is to be done with the offering.
"You may not dedicate to the Lord the firstborn of any ox or sheep, for it is already his." Lev. 27:26
The Israelites have already been given the command to give their tithe. It was a command to give the firstborn of their ox & sheep. The offerings that are described in this chapter is dealing with how to give offerings that are ABOVE and BEYOND the tithe. In that realm of giving, there were many possibilities of what to give, and how to give it. But when it comes to the tithe, that command has already been given.
When you tithe, do you feel you are being "generous" to God? It's easy it is to write a tithe check and feel so good that I'm giving God something. It's great to feel good, but I need to feel good because I'm obedient, not because I'm going the extra mile to give God what is already his. It's like being proud of the fact that I wrapped up my brother's baseball glove & gave it to him. That's not quite "generosity".
The principle of "Active Ministry Involvement" is responsibility. It's being a good steward of time, talent and resources. At first glance it would seem that the paying of the tithe fits into that "category". That's not really accurate. Tithe is not necessarily a matter of stewardship. It's a matter of Obedience. Obedience is the principle of "Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship". To not pay your tithe is not a matter of "oops, I haven't been a good steward..." it's a matter of "oops, I'm being disobedient".
We need to develop a generous spirit. A generous spirit gives life to stewardship. But I must guard against the thought that my tithe is my "generosity" because in reality, it's my "obedience". We should make sure to walk in obedience with a generous spirit, and by all means, go above and beyond with generosity. Freely you have received, so freely give. Just make sure you you are walking in obedience as well.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
9.7.11 "Are your Deeds as Good as your Doctrine?"
"Are your Deeds as Good as your Doctrine?"
Song of Solomon 5:1-8:14
2 Corinthians 9:1-15
Psalm 51:1-19
Proverbs 22:24-25
How blessed are you? Take a moment and think about it. You may have had some financial challenges, maybe even some employment issues, but how blessed are you? Have you ever thought about WHY you've been given what you have been given? Is it because you deserve it? Is it because God likes you better? What is the point of your blessing?
2 Cor. 9:11 says, "Yes, God will give you much so that you can give away much". That pretty much sums up the point.
As much as we like to have "stuff," we must understand that the point is not so that we "have" stuff. The point is that we "use" stuff to minister to people.
This is a principle of Active Ministry Involvement: There is a Responsibility to GIVE because it's been given to you. There is a purpose in this. verse 12-13 say, "So, two good things happen as a result of your gifts - those in need are helped, and they overflow with thanks to God. Those you help will be glad not only because of your generous gifts to themselves and to others, but they will praise God for this proof that your deeds are as good as your doctrine."
That's a pretty powerful statement. "... your deeds are as good as your doctrine." What is that saying? It's saying that you cannot be who God created you to be without the principle of giving in your life. You must be giving of your time, talent, and resources. Otherwise, your deeds do not line up with your doctrine. By not giving, your are hurting your testimony. This detracts from glory that should be going to God.
This is a big deal. I'm not really a generous person by nature. I might be more so with time & service, but not with giving gifts. Not because I don't like to give, but just because I usually don't think about it. It's not in my natural "wiring". While it might not naturally be a part of who I am, it should be a part of my evident maturity. It's a part of living the DREAM.
Don't get me wrong. This is not about throwing away money to every need that comes along. All must be in balance. We must be good stewards of what we've been given. Giving should be God-directed. When giving in good stewardship, "God is able to make it up to you by giving you everything you need and more, so that there will not only be enough for your own needs, but plenty left over to give joyfully to others." (2 Cor. 9:8)
God has put in place an incredible principle. Verse 6 says, "But remember this - if you give a little, you will get little. A farmer who plants just a few seeds will get only a small crop, but if he plants much, he will reap much." In that light it makes sense. To get a nice lawn, I've learned the key is over-seeding. If I want a thick lawn, I can't "sow sparingly". That makes sense to me. So, why can't I understand this when it comes to giving of time, talent & resources? It's the same principle. Sometimes we don't have enough time because of our selfish attitude about time. We shouldn't want a thick pocket book so we can have "stuff", but rather we should want to be able to act when the Lord presents a need.
We don't give to get, we give to get more to give. I need to really learn that. Imagine the change in our lifestyles if all believers lived this way. It would be almost like our deeds lined up with our doctrine!!
THAT'S why you have what you have!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Song of Solomon 5:1-8:14
2 Corinthians 9:1-15
Psalm 51:1-19
Proverbs 22:24-25
How blessed are you? Take a moment and think about it. You may have had some financial challenges, maybe even some employment issues, but how blessed are you? Have you ever thought about WHY you've been given what you have been given? Is it because you deserve it? Is it because God likes you better? What is the point of your blessing?
2 Cor. 9:11 says, "Yes, God will give you much so that you can give away much". That pretty much sums up the point.
As much as we like to have "stuff," we must understand that the point is not so that we "have" stuff. The point is that we "use" stuff to minister to people.
This is a principle of Active Ministry Involvement: There is a Responsibility to GIVE because it's been given to you. There is a purpose in this. verse 12-13 say, "So, two good things happen as a result of your gifts - those in need are helped, and they overflow with thanks to God. Those you help will be glad not only because of your generous gifts to themselves and to others, but they will praise God for this proof that your deeds are as good as your doctrine."
That's a pretty powerful statement. "... your deeds are as good as your doctrine." What is that saying? It's saying that you cannot be who God created you to be without the principle of giving in your life. You must be giving of your time, talent, and resources. Otherwise, your deeds do not line up with your doctrine. By not giving, your are hurting your testimony. This detracts from glory that should be going to God.
This is a big deal. I'm not really a generous person by nature. I might be more so with time & service, but not with giving gifts. Not because I don't like to give, but just because I usually don't think about it. It's not in my natural "wiring". While it might not naturally be a part of who I am, it should be a part of my evident maturity. It's a part of living the DREAM.
Don't get me wrong. This is not about throwing away money to every need that comes along. All must be in balance. We must be good stewards of what we've been given. Giving should be God-directed. When giving in good stewardship, "God is able to make it up to you by giving you everything you need and more, so that there will not only be enough for your own needs, but plenty left over to give joyfully to others." (2 Cor. 9:8)
God has put in place an incredible principle. Verse 6 says, "But remember this - if you give a little, you will get little. A farmer who plants just a few seeds will get only a small crop, but if he plants much, he will reap much." In that light it makes sense. To get a nice lawn, I've learned the key is over-seeding. If I want a thick lawn, I can't "sow sparingly". That makes sense to me. So, why can't I understand this when it comes to giving of time, talent & resources? It's the same principle. Sometimes we don't have enough time because of our selfish attitude about time. We shouldn't want a thick pocket book so we can have "stuff", but rather we should want to be able to act when the Lord presents a need.
We don't give to get, we give to get more to give. I need to really learn that. Imagine the change in our lifestyles if all believers lived this way. It would be almost like our deeds lined up with our doctrine!!
THAT'S why you have what you have!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
3.23.11 "God's Economy"
"God's Economy"
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "couch potato" who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "couch potato" who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Friday, February 25, 2011
2.25.11 "The Generous Spirit"
"The Generous Spirit"
Leviticus 16:29-18:30
Mark 7:24-8:10
Psalm 41:1-13
Proverbs 10:15-16
"The good man's earnings advance the cause of righteousness. The evil man squanders his on sin." Prov. 10:16 (TLB)
We've all heard the phrase "it's not about you." We've probably heard it a couple more times than our flesh would like to hear it! As much as we may not want to hear that, it needs to become a part of who we are. To be who God has created us to be, we need to understand what it REALLY means to live a life that's "not about me".
Think of all your resources right now. Your time, talent, income, all of it. Would you put it in the category of "advancing the cause of righteousness" or "squandered on sin"? Immediately we connect the "sin" as the kind of stuff the prodigal son did. Squandering on partying, etc. Well, we can also get caught in the trap of squandering our resources on comfort and worldly objectives. We must accept the challenge to continually keep an eye on where our resources are going. Are they advancing the cause of righteousness?
I had a big ol' snowblower. I got it for $100 dollars as it is very old, but it worked. Prior to that, when I was shoveling, I would look down the street at my neighbors w/ a snowblower & think, "it would be nice if they'd offer to help with my driveway." So with me being the one with the snowblower, and neighbors who don't have a snow blower, I'm thinking, if this old snowblower wasn't so moody, I'd help the neighbors... Well, now I got a new snowblower... Guess what I need to do... advance the cause of righteousness.
When we take what God has given us and focus it on the needs of others, there is blessing on our lives.
"God blesses those who are kind to the poor. He helps them out of their troubles. He protects them and keeps them alive; he publicly honors them and destroys the power of their enemies. He nurses them when they are sick, and soothes their pains and worries." Psalm 41:1-3
We come across so many people with troubles, each one having varying degrees of how well they "deal" with it. Notice this pattern: Those least affected by circumstance are those with a generous spirit. In other words, those who have a healthy understanding of stewardship and are generous to others are FAR less thrown off course by a crisis.
At the same time, those who are so overwhelmed by the trials of life seem to be individuals who are not giving. They are not concerned with the needs of others. They like to keep the attention on themselves and on their personal crisis.
On which type of individual does the blessing of God rest?
Notice what the scripture says about the ones who are kind to the poor. "helps them out of their troubles... destroys the power of their enemies... nurses them when they are sick... soothes their pains and worries..." Notice how those who are kind to the poor still have troubles, enemies, sickness, pain, and worry. The difference is not that the road has no challenges, the difference is that there is someone along side who helps them through all of this.
The generous spirit needs to be a part of who we are to live the "A" of DREAM. We must apply this to our being. Look for opportunities today to "invest" in your blessing!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Leviticus 16:29-18:30
Mark 7:24-8:10
Psalm 41:1-13
Proverbs 10:15-16
"The good man's earnings advance the cause of righteousness. The evil man squanders his on sin." Prov. 10:16 (TLB)
We've all heard the phrase "it's not about you." We've probably heard it a couple more times than our flesh would like to hear it! As much as we may not want to hear that, it needs to become a part of who we are. To be who God has created us to be, we need to understand what it REALLY means to live a life that's "not about me".
Think of all your resources right now. Your time, talent, income, all of it. Would you put it in the category of "advancing the cause of righteousness" or "squandered on sin"? Immediately we connect the "sin" as the kind of stuff the prodigal son did. Squandering on partying, etc. Well, we can also get caught in the trap of squandering our resources on comfort and worldly objectives. We must accept the challenge to continually keep an eye on where our resources are going. Are they advancing the cause of righteousness?
I had a big ol' snowblower. I got it for $100 dollars as it is very old, but it worked. Prior to that, when I was shoveling, I would look down the street at my neighbors w/ a snowblower & think, "it would be nice if they'd offer to help with my driveway." So with me being the one with the snowblower, and neighbors who don't have a snow blower, I'm thinking, if this old snowblower wasn't so moody, I'd help the neighbors... Well, now I got a new snowblower... Guess what I need to do... advance the cause of righteousness.
When we take what God has given us and focus it on the needs of others, there is blessing on our lives.
"God blesses those who are kind to the poor. He helps them out of their troubles. He protects them and keeps them alive; he publicly honors them and destroys the power of their enemies. He nurses them when they are sick, and soothes their pains and worries." Psalm 41:1-3
We come across so many people with troubles, each one having varying degrees of how well they "deal" with it. Notice this pattern: Those least affected by circumstance are those with a generous spirit. In other words, those who have a healthy understanding of stewardship and are generous to others are FAR less thrown off course by a crisis.
At the same time, those who are so overwhelmed by the trials of life seem to be individuals who are not giving. They are not concerned with the needs of others. They like to keep the attention on themselves and on their personal crisis.
On which type of individual does the blessing of God rest?
Notice what the scripture says about the ones who are kind to the poor. "helps them out of their troubles... destroys the power of their enemies... nurses them when they are sick... soothes their pains and worries..." Notice how those who are kind to the poor still have troubles, enemies, sickness, pain, and worry. The difference is not that the road has no challenges, the difference is that there is someone along side who helps them through all of this.
The generous spirit needs to be a part of who we are to live the "A" of DREAM. We must apply this to our being. Look for opportunities today to "invest" in your blessing!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
Pastor Greg Lathe
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
6.16.10 "This is All I Have"
"This is All I Have"
I Kings 15:25-17:24
Acts 10:24-48
Psalm 134:1-3
Proverbs 17:9-11
In I Kings 17 we meet this prophet Elijah. He's kind of a quirky fellow. I'm not sure many of us would get along with him too well. especially if he moved into our house and wanted to eat our last bit of food.
We can get quite attached to that last bit. I'm notorious for saving the last bit as long as i can. If Lisa makes a plate of bars, i will eat at will, but when there's only one left, i can make that thing last for days. I will walk by, unwrap it, take a bite, wrap it up again... There have been times when someone has casually and irreverently tossed the remnants of my last bar... There's more emotion here than I could possibly communicate right now...
Elijah and the widow of Zarephath is a story that we can all remember from growing up in the church. I still think I remember what the "Flannel-graph" looked like on that. (oh, the technology!) This widow had plans for her last bit of food. Eat it and die.
There is a DREAM principle in this story, and it is the area of Active Ministry Involvement. It is the principle of Responsibility. Sometimes when we think of Active Ministry Involvement, we just think of "doing" stuff that we have a "talent" or "interest" in. But to truly Live the DREAM, (the Balanced Christian Life) it's more than that. We have all been given resources of infinite variety. It's not just a talent. It can be time, money, and so much more. Scripture clearly indicates that we have a Responsibility to give account for what we've done with the resources we've been given. (Matthew 25:14-30)
This responsibility is not just for those who are plentiful in resources. It's for those who are given much as well as those who have nearly nothing. Remember the Widow's Offering in Matthew 12. Jesus said, all others have given from their wealth, but she has given all she has.
So many times we are too afraid to give God that last little bit. "If I give this to God, I will have nothing." Yet, as Elijah points out, If you give this to God, you will never be in want. We can tend to create this self-fulfilling prophecy. We DON'T give it to God, and we die. I'm not necessarily talking physically, but just think of that talent or ability that you kind of feel is so lacking, and yet God has directed you to step out in obedience. You haven't done it, so what does that talent or ability look like now? There are many who are waiting until they can "afford" to tithe. The truth is, you can't afford NOT to! If you don't, you will "eat your last portion and die".
I'm sure sitting in a Sunday School class, we'd all raise our hand in agreement & nod our head. What about at home when you're looking at the bottom of your jar? It may be that the thing in the bottom of your jar is not something good. Today's Proverb says, "Love forgets mistakes; nagging about them parts the best of friends" (Prov. 17:9). Maybe what we have to give up is bitterness, or even the desire to be proved "right".
Imagine two pictures. the first is the widow with fear in her eyes hugging the jar with the last bit of flour. "This is All I have!". the second is the widow with confidence and even a hint of joy handing the jar to the prophet declaring, "This is All I have!"
What do you think God is calling you to do? Today there may be a situation where you are asked to give what seems to be your last. What will your posture be? Will your fist be clenched, or your hands raised as you declare "This is All I have!"
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
I Kings 15:25-17:24
Acts 10:24-48
Psalm 134:1-3
Proverbs 17:9-11
In I Kings 17 we meet this prophet Elijah. He's kind of a quirky fellow. I'm not sure many of us would get along with him too well. especially if he moved into our house and wanted to eat our last bit of food.
We can get quite attached to that last bit. I'm notorious for saving the last bit as long as i can. If Lisa makes a plate of bars, i will eat at will, but when there's only one left, i can make that thing last for days. I will walk by, unwrap it, take a bite, wrap it up again... There have been times when someone has casually and irreverently tossed the remnants of my last bar... There's more emotion here than I could possibly communicate right now...
Elijah and the widow of Zarephath is a story that we can all remember from growing up in the church. I still think I remember what the "Flannel-graph" looked like on that. (oh, the technology!) This widow had plans for her last bit of food. Eat it and die.
There is a DREAM principle in this story, and it is the area of Active Ministry Involvement. It is the principle of Responsibility. Sometimes when we think of Active Ministry Involvement, we just think of "doing" stuff that we have a "talent" or "interest" in. But to truly Live the DREAM, (the Balanced Christian Life) it's more than that. We have all been given resources of infinite variety. It's not just a talent. It can be time, money, and so much more. Scripture clearly indicates that we have a Responsibility to give account for what we've done with the resources we've been given. (Matthew 25:14-30)
This responsibility is not just for those who are plentiful in resources. It's for those who are given much as well as those who have nearly nothing. Remember the Widow's Offering in Matthew 12. Jesus said, all others have given from their wealth, but she has given all she has.
So many times we are too afraid to give God that last little bit. "If I give this to God, I will have nothing." Yet, as Elijah points out, If you give this to God, you will never be in want. We can tend to create this self-fulfilling prophecy. We DON'T give it to God, and we die. I'm not necessarily talking physically, but just think of that talent or ability that you kind of feel is so lacking, and yet God has directed you to step out in obedience. You haven't done it, so what does that talent or ability look like now? There are many who are waiting until they can "afford" to tithe. The truth is, you can't afford NOT to! If you don't, you will "eat your last portion and die".
I'm sure sitting in a Sunday School class, we'd all raise our hand in agreement & nod our head. What about at home when you're looking at the bottom of your jar? It may be that the thing in the bottom of your jar is not something good. Today's Proverb says, "Love forgets mistakes; nagging about them parts the best of friends" (Prov. 17:9). Maybe what we have to give up is bitterness, or even the desire to be proved "right".
Imagine two pictures. the first is the widow with fear in her eyes hugging the jar with the last bit of flour. "This is All I have!". the second is the widow with confidence and even a hint of joy handing the jar to the prophet declaring, "This is All I have!"
What do you think God is calling you to do? Today there may be a situation where you are asked to give what seems to be your last. What will your posture be? Will your fist be clenched, or your hands raised as you declare "This is All I have!"
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
3.23.10 "God's Economy"
"God's Economy"
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "fat slob" on the couch who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "fat slob" on the couch who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Thursday, February 25, 2010
2.25.10 "The Generous Spirit"
"The Generous Spirit"
Leviticus 16:29-18:30
Mark 7:24-8:10
Psalm 41:1-13
Proverbs 10:15-16
"The good man's earnings advance the cause of righteousness. The evil man squanders his on sin." Prov. 10:16 (TLB)
We've all heard the phrase "it's not about you." We've probably heard it a couple more times than our flesh would like to hear it! As much as we may not want to hear that, it needs to become a part of who we are. To be who God has created us to be, we need to understand what it REALLY means to live a life that's "not about me".
Think of all your resources right now. Your time, talent, income, all of it. Would you put it in the category of "advancing the cause of righteousness" or "squandered on sin"? Immediately we connect the "sin" as the kind of stuff the prodigal son did. Squandering on partying, etc. Well, we can also get caught in the trap of squandering our resources on comfort and worldly objectives. We must accept the challenge to continually keep an eye on where our resources are going. Are they advancing the cause of righteousness?
I had a big ol' snowblower. I got it for $100 dollars as it is very old, but it worked. Prior to that, when I was shoveling, I would look down the street at my neighbors w/ a snowblower & think, "it would be nice if they'd offer to help with my driveway." So with me being the one with the snowblower, and neighbors who don't have a snow blower, I'm thinking, if this old snowblower wasn't so moody, I'd help the neighbors... Well, now I got a new snowblower... Guess what I need to do... advance the cause of righteousness.
When we take what God has given us and focus it on the needs of others, there is blessing on our lives.
"God blesses those who are kind to the poor. He helps them out of their troubles. He protects them and keeps them alive; he publicly honors them and destroys the power of their enemies. He nurses them when they are sick, and soothes their pains and worries." Psalm 41:1-3
We come across so many people with troubles, each one having varying degrees of how well they "deal" with it. Notice this pattern: Those least affected by circumstance are those with a generous spirit. In other words, those who have a healthy understanding of stewardship and are generous to others are FAR less thrown off course by a crisis.
At the same time, those who are so overwhelmed by the trials of life seem to be individuals who are not giving. They are not concerned with the needs of others. They like to keep the attention on themselves and on their personal crisis.
On which type of individual does the blessing of God rest?
Notice what the scripture says about the ones who are kind to the poor. "helps them out of their troubles... destroys the power of their enemies... nurses them when they are sick... soothes their pains and worries..." Notice how those who are kind to the poor still have troubles, enemies, sickness, pain, and worry. The difference is not that the road has no challenges, the difference is that there is someone along side who helps them through all of this.
The generous spirit needs to be a part of who we are to live the "A" of DREAM. We must apply this to our being. Look for opportunities today to "invest" in your blessing!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Leviticus 16:29-18:30
Mark 7:24-8:10
Psalm 41:1-13
Proverbs 10:15-16
"The good man's earnings advance the cause of righteousness. The evil man squanders his on sin." Prov. 10:16 (TLB)
We've all heard the phrase "it's not about you." We've probably heard it a couple more times than our flesh would like to hear it! As much as we may not want to hear that, it needs to become a part of who we are. To be who God has created us to be, we need to understand what it REALLY means to live a life that's "not about me".
Think of all your resources right now. Your time, talent, income, all of it. Would you put it in the category of "advancing the cause of righteousness" or "squandered on sin"? Immediately we connect the "sin" as the kind of stuff the prodigal son did. Squandering on partying, etc. Well, we can also get caught in the trap of squandering our resources on comfort and worldly objectives. We must accept the challenge to continually keep an eye on where our resources are going. Are they advancing the cause of righteousness?
I had a big ol' snowblower. I got it for $100 dollars as it is very old, but it worked. Prior to that, when I was shoveling, I would look down the street at my neighbors w/ a snowblower & think, "it would be nice if they'd offer to help with my driveway." So with me being the one with the snowblower, and neighbors who don't have a snow blower, I'm thinking, if this old snowblower wasn't so moody, I'd help the neighbors... Well, now I got a new snowblower... Guess what I need to do... advance the cause of righteousness.
When we take what God has given us and focus it on the needs of others, there is blessing on our lives.
"God blesses those who are kind to the poor. He helps them out of their troubles. He protects them and keeps them alive; he publicly honors them and destroys the power of their enemies. He nurses them when they are sick, and soothes their pains and worries." Psalm 41:1-3
We come across so many people with troubles, each one having varying degrees of how well they "deal" with it. Notice this pattern: Those least affected by circumstance are those with a generous spirit. In other words, those who have a healthy understanding of stewardship and are generous to others are FAR less thrown off course by a crisis.
At the same time, those who are so overwhelmed by the trials of life seem to be individuals who are not giving. They are not concerned with the needs of others. They like to keep the attention on themselves and on their personal crisis.
On which type of individual does the blessing of God rest?
Notice what the scripture says about the ones who are kind to the poor. "helps them out of their troubles... destroys the power of their enemies... nurses them when they are sick... soothes their pains and worries..." Notice how those who are kind to the poor still have troubles, enemies, sickness, pain, and worry. The difference is not that the road has no challenges, the difference is that there is someone along side who helps them through all of this.
The generous spirit needs to be a part of who we are to live the "A" of DREAM. We must apply this to our being. Look for opportunities today to "invest" in your blessing!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Saturday, August 15, 2009
8.15.9 "Slaves in the Land of Plenty"
"Slaves in the Land of Plenty"
Nehemiah 9:22 - 10:39
I Corinthians 9:20 - 10:14
Psalm 34:1-10
Proverb 21:13
The book of Nehemiah records a prayer of Ezra, in which he proclaims a covenant that all the people sign to declare their commitment to serve the Lord. He prayed this after reading the laws of the Lord, and proclaiming the history of his people. This is what he says in Neh. 9:35-36:
"They did not worship you despite the wonderful things you did for them and the great goodness you showered upon them. You gave them a large, fat land, but they refused to turn from their wickedness. So now we are slaves here in the land of plenty which you gave to our ancestors! Slaves among all this abundance!"
Reading this one can not help but think of the state of our nation, even the state of the church. We are slaves in the land of abundance. Specifically, I'm thinking in the area of finances.
Our family loves games. One of our games of choice is Monopoly. It's been a blast to see our daughter learn to count money and make change, etc. Parker Brothers and Visa have now partnered to release the new monopoly which has no cash, but comes with cute little credit cards, and a swipe machine that keeps track of what each player has and owes. What a "great" way to teach youth that debt is now a way of life... slaves in the land of plenty.
In I Corinthians Paul is talking about how we need to run to win. "In a race, everyone runs but only one person gets first prize. So run your race to win. To win the contest you must deny yourselves many things that would keep you from doing your best." (I Cor. 9:24-25)
As a society, we're not known for denying ourselves anything. We want it, so we get it, regardless of if we have to go in debt to get it. We don't realize how this paralyzes us. Imagine if all Christians were debt free. About 10 years ago I had a friend tell me that Christians should be debt free. At the time I thought he was NUTS! But think about it! What would the state of the church be? How strong would the missions programs be? How strong would ministries be? How about taking care of the poor?
Proverbs 21:13 says, "He who shuts his ears to the cries of the poor will be ignored in his own time of need." Think about how being in debt shuts the ears to the needy. "I'd give, but I've got these payments..."
I Cor. 10:12-14 says, "So be careful. If you are thinking, 'Oh, I would never behave like that' - let this be a warning to you. For you too may fall into sin. but remember this - the wrong desires that come into your life aren't anything new and different. Many other have faced exactly the same problems before you. And no temptation is irresistible. You can trust God to keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it, for he has promised this and will do what he says. He will show you how to escape temptation's power so that you can bear up patiently against it. So dear friends, carefully avoid idol-worship of every kind."
Let's throw off everything that entangles today! Christ died to bring us freedom, not bondage. Let's worship him with all that we have so we are no longer slaves in the land of plenty.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Nehemiah 9:22 - 10:39
I Corinthians 9:20 - 10:14
Psalm 34:1-10
Proverb 21:13
The book of Nehemiah records a prayer of Ezra, in which he proclaims a covenant that all the people sign to declare their commitment to serve the Lord. He prayed this after reading the laws of the Lord, and proclaiming the history of his people. This is what he says in Neh. 9:35-36:
"They did not worship you despite the wonderful things you did for them and the great goodness you showered upon them. You gave them a large, fat land, but they refused to turn from their wickedness. So now we are slaves here in the land of plenty which you gave to our ancestors! Slaves among all this abundance!"
Reading this one can not help but think of the state of our nation, even the state of the church. We are slaves in the land of abundance. Specifically, I'm thinking in the area of finances.
Our family loves games. One of our games of choice is Monopoly. It's been a blast to see our daughter learn to count money and make change, etc. Parker Brothers and Visa have now partnered to release the new monopoly which has no cash, but comes with cute little credit cards, and a swipe machine that keeps track of what each player has and owes. What a "great" way to teach youth that debt is now a way of life... slaves in the land of plenty.
In I Corinthians Paul is talking about how we need to run to win. "In a race, everyone runs but only one person gets first prize. So run your race to win. To win the contest you must deny yourselves many things that would keep you from doing your best." (I Cor. 9:24-25)
As a society, we're not known for denying ourselves anything. We want it, so we get it, regardless of if we have to go in debt to get it. We don't realize how this paralyzes us. Imagine if all Christians were debt free. About 10 years ago I had a friend tell me that Christians should be debt free. At the time I thought he was NUTS! But think about it! What would the state of the church be? How strong would the missions programs be? How strong would ministries be? How about taking care of the poor?
Proverbs 21:13 says, "He who shuts his ears to the cries of the poor will be ignored in his own time of need." Think about how being in debt shuts the ears to the needy. "I'd give, but I've got these payments..."
I Cor. 10:12-14 says, "So be careful. If you are thinking, 'Oh, I would never behave like that' - let this be a warning to you. For you too may fall into sin. but remember this - the wrong desires that come into your life aren't anything new and different. Many other have faced exactly the same problems before you. And no temptation is irresistible. You can trust God to keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it, for he has promised this and will do what he says. He will show you how to escape temptation's power so that you can bear up patiently against it. So dear friends, carefully avoid idol-worship of every kind."
Let's throw off everything that entangles today! Christ died to bring us freedom, not bondage. Let's worship him with all that we have so we are no longer slaves in the land of plenty.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Monday, March 23, 2009
3.23.9 "God's Economy"
"God's Economy"
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "fat slob" on the couch who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Numbers 36:1-Deuteronomy 1:46
Luke 5:29-6:11
Psalm 66:1-20
Proverbs 11:24-26
God's economy is incredible. To the world it doesn't make sense. The world's economy is focused on gaining as much as you can. The motivation is selfishness. God's economy is based on obedience.
"It is possible to give away and become richer! It is also possible to hold on too tightly and lose everything. Yes, the liberal man shall be rich! By watering others, he waters himself." Prov. 11:24-25
As I read the word today, it reminded me of conversations I had with two different individuals. One was a man I see as a model father. He was sharing memories that he had from when his kids were younger. "We don't really have anything to show for the years I've worked. Not much of stuff, but we sure had a lot of fun!" I see his grown children who love the Lord, and it makes me think that there are too many that have the "stuff" and a bunch of regrets.
Another conversation I had was with a young couple who are stepping out in obedience to God's direction. She told me "We've never made so little and yet have so much money." They've been giving a ton away.
I can't explain God's economy. All I know is this. When we try to "get" more it doesn't work. When our focus is obedience in giving, the blessing is poured out. This isn't just about money. It's about all of our time, talent and resource.
We know we should give. But we have a problem with "we should give so we can get more" because it sounds like selfish motivation. That's because we don't finish that thought... It should be "We should give so we can get more to give!"
How can someone who has a lot be broke? I guess I can see it like a "fat slob" on the couch who's tired all the time, and a busy person who exercises regularly and is full of energy. How does that make sense? (as said by the guy on the couch) The reason the energy is there is because the blood is flowing. The body is healthy.
The same is true for our resources. What God has given us has no value if it is not put to his use. This is what Active Ministry Involvement is all about. Again, it's not about joining a group, it's about using your gifts for God's glory in the home, at work, for the body of Christ, in the neighborhood, and around the world. We have a responsibility to do this.
It may not make sense in the world's eyes, but with the blessing of God's economy, we can know we are walking in obedience!
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
3.3.9 "'Giving' or 'Obedience'"
"'Giving' or 'Obedience'"
Leviticus 27:14-Numbers 1:54
Mark 11:1-26
Psalm 46:1-11
Proverbs 10:23
I remember one Christmas when we were kids we wanted more presents. It was so long ago I can hardly remember the details, but I know i took some of my brothers toys and I wrapped it up for him so we'd have more presents. It was fun opening more boxes, but I guess there's some level of disappointment that someone went out of their way to give you what was already yours.
Leviticus 27 spells out the process for the Israelites to give special offerings to the Lord. There is a guideline for how to give gifts of land, fruit, grain, homes, and animals. There is amazing detail to the method of how things are valued, redeemed, and what is to be done with the offering.
"You may not dedicate to the Lord the firstborn of any ox or sheep, for it is already his." Lev. 27:26
The Israelites have already been given the command to give their tithe. It was a command to give the firstborn of their ox & sheep. The offerings that are described in this chapter is dealing with how to give offerings that are ABOVE and BEYOND the tithe. In that realm of giving, there were many possibilities of what to give, and how to give it. But when it comes to the tithe, that command has already been given.
When you tithe, do you feel you are being "generous" to God? It's easy it is to write a tithe check and feel so good that I'm giving God something. It's great to feel good, but I need to feel good because I'm obedient, not because I'm going the extra mile to give God what is already his. It's like being proud of the fact that I wrapped up my brother's baseball glove & gave it to him. That's not quite "generosity".
The principle of "Active Ministry Involvement" is responsibility. It's being a good steward of time, talent and resources. At first glance it would seem that the paying of the tithe fits into that "category". That's not really accurate. Tithe is not necessarily a matter of stewardship. It's a matter of Obedience. Obedience is the principle of "Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship". To not pay your tithe is not a matter of "oops, I haven't been a good steward..." it's a matter of "oops, I'm being disobedient".
We need to develop a generous spirit. A generous spirit gives life to stewardship. But I must guard against the thought that my tithe is my "generosity" because in reality, it's my "obedience". We should make sure to walk in obedience with a generous spirit, and by all means, go above and beyond with generosity. Freely you have received, so freely give. Just make sure you you are walking in obedience as well.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
Leviticus 27:14-Numbers 1:54
Mark 11:1-26
Psalm 46:1-11
Proverbs 10:23
I remember one Christmas when we were kids we wanted more presents. It was so long ago I can hardly remember the details, but I know i took some of my brothers toys and I wrapped it up for him so we'd have more presents. It was fun opening more boxes, but I guess there's some level of disappointment that someone went out of their way to give you what was already yours.
Leviticus 27 spells out the process for the Israelites to give special offerings to the Lord. There is a guideline for how to give gifts of land, fruit, grain, homes, and animals. There is amazing detail to the method of how things are valued, redeemed, and what is to be done with the offering.
"You may not dedicate to the Lord the firstborn of any ox or sheep, for it is already his." Lev. 27:26
The Israelites have already been given the command to give their tithe. It was a command to give the firstborn of their ox & sheep. The offerings that are described in this chapter is dealing with how to give offerings that are ABOVE and BEYOND the tithe. In that realm of giving, there were many possibilities of what to give, and how to give it. But when it comes to the tithe, that command has already been given.
When you tithe, do you feel you are being "generous" to God? It's easy it is to write a tithe check and feel so good that I'm giving God something. It's great to feel good, but I need to feel good because I'm obedient, not because I'm going the extra mile to give God what is already his. It's like being proud of the fact that I wrapped up my brother's baseball glove & gave it to him. That's not quite "generosity".
The principle of "Active Ministry Involvement" is responsibility. It's being a good steward of time, talent and resources. At first glance it would seem that the paying of the tithe fits into that "category". That's not really accurate. Tithe is not necessarily a matter of stewardship. It's a matter of Obedience. Obedience is the principle of "Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship". To not pay your tithe is not a matter of "oops, I haven't been a good steward..." it's a matter of "oops, I'm being disobedient".
We need to develop a generous spirit. A generous spirit gives life to stewardship. But I must guard against the thought that my tithe is my "generosity" because in reality, it's my "obedience". We should make sure to walk in obedience with a generous spirit, and by all means, go above and beyond with generosity. Freely you have received, so freely give. Just make sure you you are walking in obedience as well.
Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!
P Greg
Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ
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