Dave's Blog
Giving Generously
The past couple of weeks we’ve been talking about stewardship. What do we do with the money that the Lord has entrusted to us? How do we use it to His glory? I’ve been so proud of the way you all have been stepping up in your “extra giving” by contributing supplies to the Haiti Relief Fund. At the time of this posting you all have brought in 32,967 lbs. of supplies including 407 cases of water and 395 tents and given over $396,993.
Remember this: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” 2 Corinthians 9:6 NIV®
I can’t wait to hear Kyle preach this weekend. The Lord willing, he will have returned from his extended mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Following the earthquake, he was able to visit Haiti. I am certain that his first-hand experience will touch you just as it touched him.
Kyle will be wrapping up our stewardship series. Last weekend, due to time constraints, I had to cut this next paragraph from my sermon. Hopefully it will inspire you and me to be faithful managers of what God has entrusted to us.
Dave Upchurch used to preach in Harrodsburg, Ky. He tells of when he was growing up. On Sunday mornings when everyone else was getting ready for church, his dad would always be sitting in the family room lazy boy chair with his checkbook in his lap. He’d sit there for several minutes. If someone asked what he was doing, he’d say, “I’m just thinking about all the ways God has blessed me this week before I write out this check.”
He’s right... we are so blessed.
Kathleen Davidson wrote:
You are right Dave… How BLESSED we are in this incredible life! Money is nothing compared to the promise in our savior, I hope I can always let go of the material things and let the glory go to Him!
February 3, 2010 @ 6:12 pm
Debbie Lynch(Bubbles) wrote:
Dear Dave,
Since your last Sunday’s preaching, I have been thinking what you said about “is God in that purchase?” Am I really needing that item? I have been going around asking people around me the same questions. Dave you made me think! The eBay sermon was a thinker.
Oh, I do thank you a lot. God bless you 4-ever…
Your friend,
Debbie
February 3, 2010 @ 6:46 pm
Peter Paul wrote:
This is a great article about tithing.
http://www.lifestream.org/bodylife.php?blid=29
February 4, 2010 @ 8:37 am
bondChristian wrote:
Yes, I love the idea of prepping for giving. Usually - for me anyway - I’m prepping for getting out of giving. I consider how giving this will affect what I can do for my family or any number of other ways I could “serve the Lord” with it.
Sometimes, I even doubt God’s hand in it. I think, they’re not really going to use the money (or whatever else it is) that well. Surely I can put it to better use. You better just let me keep this, God.
It’s ridiculous when I write it out, but it’s accurate. I know I need to remember that God’s going to take care of the results - He just wants me to be faithful with the process, the part He’s put me in.
Looking forward to hearing Kyle too. Thank you for posting.
-Marshall Jones Jr.
February 4, 2010 @ 10:37 am
Mary Kay wrote:
I just want to share my experience from 2009. I believe in the power of titheing 10% off the top, before taxes. Last year I made a wopping $22,495.42, this is almost my lowest paycheck in 30 years. This income would be a joke for most people. I have always been fairly wise with my money but like many others have lost money in stocks and unwise decisions. Last year besides real estate, I cleaned, painted and landscaped houses. God will provide a way. I am debt free with the exception of my house payment, but I have bills just like anybody else, including buying my own health insurance. 2009 I cut off my home phone and my internet, I haven’t had cable since my divorce in 2007. But the bottom line is, all my bills are paid and there’s money in the bank. I go out to eat and see movies with friends. Shop consignment shops and yard sales. God is good. Am I always a cheerful giver?, no, but I am thankful when I get a check and can pay my tithes. I decided last year on weeks that I don’t have any money coming in I would give $10.00. because I don’t like to pass the basket without putting something in. I am not bragging on me but on the power of tithing. People don’t understand that this is something they can’t afford not to do. You know what the bible says, give and He will give back, He will open the windows of heaven. Please pray for me I’m starting a new business that I believe God has put on my heart.
February 9, 2010 @ 2:26 pm