This Sunday my message will focus on the theme of being a good steward. I will reflect on the role of the tithe in the Old Testament as well as considering the generosity of God toward us. It's really this generosity that above everything else ought to motivate us to be generous in our own giving.
We are to be motivated by the generosity of God in sending Jesus to be our Savior. This action is the supreme sacrifice - one made out of love. Can we not respond in kind to all the blessings we therefore receive. I'm sure you can begin to count them!
Reflect for a moment on a piece of wisdom from Proverbs 11:24: "Some give freely, yet grow richer; others withhold what is due, and only suffer want." What do you make of this? To withhold giving to the church or to the poor often is done because of insecurity - or should I say - lack of trust in God. Our giving is always a response to what God has done and promises.
Discipleship Question for Reflection
If you were to receive an extremely generous cash gift - no strings attached - what would you do with it? Consider how stewardship would play out in your life.