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 […]
Week 18 Mission | Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Jonathan Edwards married Sarah Pierrepont on July 28, 1727. Jonathan and Sarah were as different in personalities as they were similar in convictions. He was the introverted scholar, content to spend hours in his study; she was the extrovert who enjoyed being with others. Both were deeply committed to Christ. Jonathan followed God’s call to […]
Week 18 Character | Overflowing Generosity
Jesus, the apostles, and the early church often taught about and demonstrated how to live generously. It was a priority for them, because without it, the church could not and cannot carry out Christ’s mission and vision. One day in the temple, “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched […]