Monday, January 24, 2011

Reflections: January 23, 2011

This week's "Reflection" by Gary Keith, Executive & Teaching Pastor


LOL Giving2 Corinthians 9:1-15


In our third week of talking about being “Defined by Generosity,” the topic of becoming a hilarious giver was discussed. There is no doubt that many people have bad experiences when it comes to the church teaching about giving. Much of this teaching focuses on giving in order to get from God, or making giving a duty based upon the tithe (which, if you really study the Old Testament, results in giving in the 30% range).


Is it possible for followers of Jesus to become hilarious givers despite the many messages of giving as a duty or being guilted into it? I think so, but it will take a willingness to forgive and forget the past experiences and focus on what the Bible teaches about giving.


In our desire to become LOL (Laughing Out Loud) givers there are other obstacles. For example, one obstacle focuses on whether we really believe the truth expressed in 2 Corinthians 9:8. There is a promise in that verse, but do we really believe that promise? Can we trust God with our money? Can we trust Him with this promise? God desires that we become hilarious givers who believe in His generosity with us. What do you think? Is it possible to become an LOL giver today? What are your challenges in giving? How have you seen God respond to the promise in 2 Corinthians 9:8? Let’s talk because this idea of giving is a big one with God, even though it is a sensitive issue in the church today.

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