Sunday, September 30, 2007
The Collection
As one who has had a difficult time preaching on giving I was unusually excited to preach this specific message. During the past year I have been so impressed with our elders and other leaders. The recurring theme has been: discerning where God is leading, obeying his direction, and trusting him to provide what we need to do his work. The way God usually provides is through his people. As we grow in our faith we also grow in our giving. Part of the fruit of the spirit is "self-discipline". As we mature in self-discipline we refuse to let money control our lives by living on less than we make. This enables us to give generously and often. Although the lesson today certainly had application for everyone I was specifically targeting those who do not have a consistent, planned approach for their church contribution. I am especially interested in our children and teenagers who are perhaps earning their first paychecks. Now is the time to develop the habit of giving that will be one significant part of laying up treasures in heaven instead of on earth.
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That video was pretty awesome. Nothing personal, but that did overshadow your sermon a bit, but in a good way. : )
I am also glad that you pointed out that giving on Sunday is a tradition, not a command. I have heard/seen that used to many times to guilt people into giving. IMO, it simply says, "set apart" not "give". And as you made clear in your sermon, they were putting back for a purpose, not giving putting it in a collection plate every Sunday. While I think it is a good tradition to do so, and there are many reasons why, I also find no wrong in someone budgeting and giving a lump sum at some point in the month.
My primary concern is motive, and I believe that is God's as well. Giving is not just to keep the lights on and missionaries fed, but it is a faith building exercise. It's hard to do and I definitely still struggle with it, but giving the first fruits is what it's all about. It's not about a %, it's about giving the first fruits of the harvest, in faith that God will continue to provide the rest.
For us, money = security, and giving that up gives up our security as well. Perhaps we should have a bit more faith and find our security in the one who clothes the lilies of the field and feeds the birds of the air.
Thanks, for everything.
Grace and Peace.
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