First Fruit Offerings

The Lord takes giving seriously, and we should too. But some questions arise: How should we give? Who should we give to? Why do we give? The Bible provides several […]

 

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Christian Generosity

In the church, generosity often carries a lot of anxiety… and understandably so. Past leaders have abused it so much that it raises important questions:

  • What does it mean to give generously?

  • How do we decide who to give to?

  • Why do we even give in the first place?

Thankfully, Scripture gives us clear answers. You can find them here in this free handout.

Don't miss our live session this afternoon

We’re meeting today at 3:30 PM (CA time). Bring your questions and testimonies! I look forward to connecting with you.

The Highest Form of Giving

 

I’d like to talk about an interesting question that came up during a session last week. A client asked me, “When is it appropriate to cut off financial support from someone?” In other words, “When does giving become enabling?”

I admit I’m still working on this one. Dawna and I consider ourselves generous. We’ve supported friends throughout the years, even to the point of giving up rooms in our house.

The question is… when is it too much?

Before I answer, let’s explore an ancient Jewish principle on giving: Tzedekah. I think this will clarify my thoughts.

Tzedekah is a practice that empowers the poor to become self-sufficient. In other words, it’s about giving a sustainable gift, loan, or job to help someone get back on their feet.

What I love about Tzedekah is that it encourages long-term generosity. There’s a commitment that may go on for weeks, months, or even years.

The trick is, when you’re engaged in long term giving, to know when it’s time to move on. I think the answer is simple: when does the Holy Spirit tell you it’s time to stop?

One way is to ask yourself: “What’s my end goal? Am I simply giving for a limited time, or is there a long-term investment that requires sacrifice? If it’s long term, what’s my cut off point?”

A Real-Life Example

Last year during the months of August and September, Dawna and I housed a friend in need. We provided food and shelter. My oldest son even donated his car so they could get around. After our friend got a stable job, we decided it was time for them to move out.

Today, our friend has an apartment, a vehicle, and a steady job. They’re experiencing a sustainable lifestyle. That’s the power of Tzedekah!

Tzedekah is wonderful because it encourages donors to go the extra mile. Rather than relying on one-time gifts (which are great), it challenges you to truly meet others’ needs.

This week, ask the Lord if there’s someone you can give to for a longer period of time. But remember, only do so if you can stay within your means. Don’t give if it’s going to drive you deeper into debt. Get your house in order first, then help others.

Should You Go Into Debt To Give?

Generosity is a core part of Jesus’ teachings, but it should never come at the expense of your own family. Scripture makes it clear that God wants us to provide fo our loves ones:

“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (1 Timothy 5:8)

Giving when you’re in debt is a sign of the poverty spirit. It’s wonderful to give, but it’s also crucial to value yourself and meet your needs.

The Unintended Consequences of Debt

 

My son wrote about his issues with giving and debt in a previous blog. He explored how poor choices crippled his generosity.

Thankfully, my son and his wife have reached a much stronger position. Today, they can afford groceries, gas, and other necessities for people who are experiencing difficulty. But this change only occurred once they got their finances in order.

Getting Financially Healthy

Sacrifice is crucial. I understand the widow’s mite. But in this Kingdom culture, I want us to get healthy and steward what God has entrusted to us.

You have permission to value yourself and provide for your own needs. And what’s great about this? Once you improve your finances, your ability to give increases tenfold.

Don’t miss our live meeting this afternoon

This week, be encouraged: if you’re struggling with debt, know that God is not punishing you. Strategize how to strengthen your finances. When God brings you stability, honor Him with your first fruits.

If you have any questions, join our live discussion this afternoon at 3:30 PM (CA time). Download my free handout here.

An Open Letter to Church Leaders

Meet Hope, a regular client at Financial Sozo. She’s poised, articulate, and exudes confidence—qualities that have always stood out in our sessions. But recently, something’s changed.

Despite being highly skilled, intelligent, and well-trained in the medical field, her employers refuse to give her enough hours.

In our most recent meeting, Hope’s smile fades when I ask, “How can I help?”

She begins her heartbreaking story. It’s a tale of desperation that’s become all too familiar in my mentoring sessions.

The Church is Struggling

In the past few years, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend: Christians seeking financial help from their churches and receiving nothing in return.

Many church members are facing severe financial struggles, and according to reports, this will only get worse. One study claims that “fewer than half [of Americans] (40%) feel they are in good or great financial shape, and one in four (23%) say they are in poor shape.”

As a retired CPA and CFO, I realize that churches operate under strict budgets. Pastors manage countless demands, but there’s a crucial aspect of stewardship that’s often overlooked: supporting our people.

The Role of Benevolence Programs

Allocating resources to support church members is not only essential; it’s required. By investing in financial education and direct assistance, we can stabilize our flocks. This includes providing funds for groceries, rent, and auto repairs. The body of Christ must lift people out of poverty. Some cannot do this on their own.

Challenges Faced by Church Members

Daily, I receive cries for help. While this isn’t new, the frequency of these calls is alarming. Christians are desperate for financial assistance. People like Hope, unable to cover rent, are turning to their churches for help, but are often met with resistance.

A recent Wells Fargo survey revealed, “almost half [of Americans]… [have] more debt than they feel comfortable with…” and a polling firm, KFF, claims “about half of U.S. adults say it is difficult to afford health care costs…” These statistics highlight a dire need for intervention.

A Call to Action for Church Leaders

Church leaders must ask themselves if they’re genuinely serving those in need. Or are they diverting funds away from those who are truly suffering? Proverbs 19:17 reminds us, “One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his good deed.” We are called to support our brothers and sisters in Christ.

The Responsibility of Religious Organizations

I urge churches to quadruple their benevolence budgets. I’m calling for a revival in the Body of Christ’s involvement in welfare, development, and stability programs. Let’s partner with government agencies when needed and do our part in the gospel story. Galatians 6:2 states, “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.”

The Body of Christ must provide assistance. James 2:15-16 emphasizes this duty: “If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and be filled,’ and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their body, what use is that?”

Urgent Need for Support

Those who love Jesus require our help. They can’t wait until their rent is due or their landlords extend grace. Many churches depend on their donors for support. But part of this backing must now return to those who, despite giving small, have given in faith. Let’s meet their faith now, like bread returning after many days (Ecclesiastes 11:1).

Final Appeal and Conclusion

It’s time for church leaders to embrace generous stewardship for their people. As we pray for the Holy Spirit to heal our nation, we must also heal our congregations—not the buildings, but the people. Let’s come together and provide the assistance our flocks need.

Hop on to our live coaching session

We’re meeting live today at 3:30 PM (CA time). Bring in any questions. Download my free handout here. I’ll see you soon!

Open Discussion: 8 Levels of Jewish Giving

Giving is a crucial aspect of the Christian journey.

I’m sure many of us tithe or give offerings to our home church. But there’s a deeper understanding of giving, especially when seen from a Jewish perspective.

The key is in 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NASB), “Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Whether you’re helping out a person or supporting a local charity, giving with a grateful heart brings joy.

Join us this afternoon and we’ll explore the 8 levels of Jewish giving. It’s a fun topic, and it’ll take your perspective on generosity to a whole new level.

Hop on to our live coaching session

Join today’s meeting at 3:30 PM (CA time). You can download my free handout here. I’ll see you soon!