Tom Stolle, BCM/D Chief Financial Officer
By Tom Stolle, BCM/D Chief Financial Officer
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Gal. 6:7-8 (NIV)
These words are thought provoking. We all have areas in our lives in which we have made a significant investment, and other areas, well, not so much. We don’t always get it right. Sometimes we heavily invest our time, talent and resources into things that do not have eternal value while giving less attention to Kingdom pursuits. God says that whatever we invest heavily into, from that investment much is reaped. It is fair to say that our investments significantly shape our lives and the lives of others.
If we love God and want to see His Kingdom expand, perhaps we should ask ourselves this question: Are we ever more like God than when we are giving out of love for His glory? Consider that God gave His Son Jesus. He died for us, taking our sins to the cross. God loves us so much that this gift was worth the cost. How can we not give, knowing that He gave so much?
Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 2 Cor. 9:6-7 (NLT)
Do you delight in giving? The Bible says if you do, God loves it!
As you prayerfully consider what you will give to expand the Kingdom of God, consider some of these benefits of giving as stated in scripture:
1. Storing up eternal treasure: “Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it’s safe from moth and rust and burglars. It’s obvious, isn’t it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.” Matt. 6:19-21 (The Message)
2. Pleasing God: “And do not forget to do good and share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Heb. 13:16 (NIV)
3. Making a difference in the here and now: “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.” Prov. 11:24 (NIV)
Please prayerfully consider giving through the state missions offering this year. Your gifts will help start new churches, support the sharing of the Gospel on many local college campuses, assist those affected by natural disasters, and many other ministry causes. May God bless you as you continue to serve Him.