How to Make a "Spiritual" Financial Decision

This weekend our church will give in a unified matter beyond the regular tithe and offering, a practice we see frequently in the Scriptures.  We're calling this our "Less is More" offering.  This is a great opportunity to make a financial decision that honors God. This does not have to be a scary process or a "pin the tail on the donkey" type experience either.  God loves a cheerful and intentional giver, and this offering should be both.

1) Fight the fight against unbelief. God wants to be our provider, not money.  To overcome fear in the financial realm, we must believe that "My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus". [Philippians 4:19]  It is very hard to make a faith-based decision when fear is rampant.  God's character of love is the antidote for fear.

2) Resolve to give generously. Don't come up with something "off the top" of your head or just what you can spare.  Giving generously requires you to pray, to plan, and to prepare.  The definition of generosity applies to each person and family differently. However, the example and standard of generosity is the same: Christ on the cross (2 Cor. 8:9).

3) Evaluate needs vs. wants. Special offerings and other giving opportunities give us the chance to identify poor spending habits, unwise stewardship, and perhaps even areas of greed.  Where these things surface, be honest and when necessary, repent.

4)  Read scriptures about generosity and pray for the "eyes" to see the amount God wants you to give. Fill your mind with biblical thoughts about giving. Ask God to help you see the amount. Here are some common ways I think God often "shows" us the amount He wants us to give:

• An expected blessing (A raise or higher than expected bonus; a lower than expected bill; etc.)


• A prompting to do something that normally would not even be an option (One time God prompted Beth & I to give our entire life savings!)


• Special unity with your spouse (I cannot overestimate the importance of this!!)

5)  Ask: Does this amount require me/us to trust God? God wants you to trust Him. By trusting His heart which is full of love, mercy, & grace for His children our gift honors God as our Lord and provider.

I'm excited about this weekend as we seek to excel in the grace of giving!! (2 Cor. 8:7)