Nothing tests a person’s priorities more than an empty stomach. A severe drought plagued Israel, but in the midst of the famine God provided for Elijah. Ravens brought the faithful prophet bread and meat twice a day and he drank water from a nearby brook. Eventually, though, the brook dried up—and it looked like hope […]
Week 19 Mission | Vanilla Church
One of the more positive byproducts of the information age is the relentless pursuit of excellence in all of our life experiences. We consult YELP reviews before we dine out. We want to know what Rotten Tomatoes says before we see a movie. Travel sites such as Priceline rate the hotels so we know what […]
Week 19 Character | The Christian’s Guide to Joyful Living
My soul shall be joyful in the Lord (Psalm 35:9, King James Version). Have you ever met someone whose morning personality was so bubbly and joyful that you asked what he ordered at Starbucks? Then you wonder how Christians can possibly experience joy in the midst of trials, like unemployment, loss of health, or family […]
Week 18 Study | Giving from a Generous Heart
One of the best ways to acknowledge God (quarterly theme) and give praise to God (monthly unit theme) is with our “coined” lives. Giving to God in generous stewardship of finances can be a disciplined obligation and a wonderful privilege. But it is at its best when it is the overflow of a generous heart. […]
Week 18 Application | A Formula for Generous Living
A wise person said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” I want to share with you a little formula that expresses what it means to live generously. It starts with GRACE, unmerited favor—“God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Our gracious God has treated us far […]