What if everything you know about the connection between church and money is wrong?
Many church leaders believe that talking about money in the church has to be uncomfortable—that there’s no other option.
They dread the idea of asking people for money because they are concerned about what those people will think.
In order to unleash generosity in our church, we’ll need to move away from this old perspective. And to help you do that, here are three changes we’ll need to make in our beliefs about God, yourself, and money.
It’s not about the money
Why does God talk about money so often in the Bible? Is it because he’s broke and needs a helping hand? Far from it. God owns everything (Ex19:5).
God doesn’t need anything, which means church giving is not about giving per se. Giving is one part of growing as a disciple of Christ, which leads us to the next point.
Giving is about discipleship
If God doesn’t need our money, then why should we give?
Simple: there’s a direct correlation between our faith and the way we handle our money. In the words of Jesus, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34).
When it comes to money, we will either worship wealth or worship with our wealth.
From the seduction of success to the lure of lust, many things in the world vie for our affection and devotion. But the most dangerous idol we face is money (Matt. 6:24).
To become a generous giver, make the connection between faith and money.
Money is a vehicle
In The Giver and the Gift, coauthor Peter Greer shared, “Christ’s Kingdom is the true aim; money is a vehicle, not the ultimate objective.” In our church, we have financial needs. We have to pay rent, utility bills, and salaries among other things. But that doesn’t mean we need to chase after money to meet those needs.
God is building our church, and he will provide the financial resources he needs to accomplish his work.
As we become generous givers, we are participating in God’s work through our church. So, participate in God’s work.
Use the following questions to evaluate your own attitudes toward giving as a way of participating in God’s kingdom.
1. Do you expect God to be thankful when you give? Do you behave as if he needs your help?
2. Where are you currently in danger of worshiping your wealth rather than worshiping with your wealth?
3. How satisfied do you feel about your current level of contribution to the work and mission of your church? Why?
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