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2024-10-20 The Heart Of Giving

Title: The Heart of Giving: What Does Your Wallet Say About You?

Have you ever wondered what your spending habits say about you? Imagine your wallet or your bank account as a window into your heart. What would it reveal about your priorities and values? In a world where money often talks, Jesus offers a different perspective. In Matthew 6:21, He tells us, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This sermon explores the heart of giving, using the story of the widow's offering in Luke 21 as a powerful example. Whether you're someone who loves to give, bears with it, or is skeptical about it, this message is for you. Let's dive into what Jesus thinks about our giving and how it reflects our trust in God.

In the temple courts, amidst the hustle and bustle of Passover week, Jesus noticed something remarkable. While the rich were dropping large sums into the temple treasury, a poor widow quietly gave two tiny coins. It wasn't much in monetary terms, but Jesus saw it as more valuable than all the others combined. Why? Because she gave out of her poverty, trusting God with everything she had. This story challenges us to examine our own giving habits. Are we giving out of abundance or sacrifice? Do we trust in our financial security or in God?

Key Points to Consider:

  • God Sees What We Give: Just as Jesus noticed the widow's offering, God sees what we give. It's not about the amount but the heart behind it. Are we giving in a way that reflects our trust in God?

  • God Knows Why We Give: Our motivations matter. Are we giving to gain favor, influence, or out of obligation? Or are we giving out of gratitude and love for God?

  • Giving as Worship: Giving is an act of worship, acknowledging God's worth above all else. What do you value most? Is God worthy of your trust and resources?

  • The Multiplication Effect: Even the smallest gift can be multiplied by God for His kingdom purposes. No gift is too small when given in faith.

  • Meeting Needs: Our giving helps meet the needs of others. It's a tangible way to show love and support to those in need.

  • Following Jesus' Example: Jesus gave everything for us. Our giving should reflect His sacrificial love.

As you reflect on these points, consider how you can take a concrete step in following Jesus through your giving. What would it look like to give in a way that truly reflects your trust in God? How can you make giving a priority, even in times of scarcity?

Conclusion:

The heart of giving is about more than just money. It's about trusting God with everything we have and recognizing that all we have is a gift from Him. As you think about your own giving habits, ask yourself: What does my giving say about my heart? How can I give in a way that honors God and reflects His love to others? Remember, God doesn't count our money; He weighs our hearts. Let's strive to be generous givers, trusting that God will multiply our gifts for His glory.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our giving is a reflection of our hearts. Help us to trust You with all that we have and to give generously and sacrificially. May our giving be an act of worship that honors You and blesses others. Guide us to be faithful stewards of the resources You've entrusted to us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Posted by David Hopkins with

2024-10-13 DEEP FAITH FOR TROUBLESOME TIMES

Title: Deep Faith for Troublesome Times

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the chaos around you? You're not alone. We live in turbulent times, and it can be challenging to navigate the storms of life. But what if I told you that there's a way to find peace and strength amidst the chaos? The key lies in developing a deep, personal faith in Jesus Christ. This isn't about keeping your faith private or hidden; it's about letting it flourish and transform your life. So, how can you cultivate a faith that stands strong in the face of adversity?

Replace Private Faith with Personal Faith

The first step is to replace a private faith with a personal one. A private faith is often ritualistic, comfortable, and controlled by our own desires. It's like checking off a list of religious duties without truly engaging with God. But a personal faith is different. It's centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ and is motivated by love. It's a faith that responds to God's word with a desire to follow Him, not out of obligation, but out of a genuine longing to know Him more.

Personal faith is also public. It leads us to live out our beliefs in a way that others can see. It's about trusting God at all times and allowing Him to work in and through us. When we have a personal faith, we find ourselves drawing closer to Christ, especially in times of trouble. It's never too early or too late to make this shift. Whether you're young or old, now is the time to deepen your faith.

Trade Momentary Affliction for Eternal Glory

When your faith is personal and deep, you can begin to trade momentary afflictions for eternal glory. The troubles we face are temporary, but the glory that awaits us in Christ is eternal. This perspective helps us endure hardships with hope, knowing that God is just and will ultimately vindicate us. Our trials are not in vain; they are opportunities to grow closer to Jesus and to reflect His glory to the world.

Rely Less on Yourself and More on God

Finally, a deep faith means relying less on yourself and more on God's work in your life. It's about recognizing that God is the one who empowers us to do good and fulfill His purposes. When we stop trying to control everything and start trusting in His power, we find true freedom and strength. This reliance on God is what sustains us through the ups and downs of life.

So, what will you do this week to deepen your faith? Will you choose to make it personal, to let it be seen, and to trust God more fully? Remember, without taking this step, you might miss out on the peace and strength that Jesus wants to give you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith. Help us to move from a private faith to a personal one that is centered on Jesus and motivated by love. Teach us to trust You more and to rely on Your strength in all circumstances. May our lives reflect Your glory, and may we find peace in Your presence. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Posted by David Hopkins with

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