Paul repeatedly talked about constant prayer, but we tend to ignore it, reserving our "prayer time" for a few moments in the morning or on the drive to work. It’s time to rethink the instructions to ”pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17), “be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12), and “praying at all times in the Spirit” (Ephesians 6:18). Jesus is our example. We’re never alone, but we’re often out of touch. Lead a life of prayer.
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God Bless America!
July 4, 2024 God Bless America! “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Amendment 1 to the … Continue reading God Bless America!
Tithing Works.
We have spent a lot of time on the subject of the tithe. Today, we address some practical things to help you get started on the right foot. The important thing is to make a start. God will help the willing.
Don’t Neglect His House!
In establishing the Church, God created an organization that He knew would be worldwide. This new entity would be maintained and expanded primarily by well-trained volunteers and would face overwhelming opposition. He considered the Church so precious that He paid for it with His own blood (Acts 20:28). I find it hard to believe that He would not have a plan to provide for its expenses.
It’s How the Kingdom Works!
The concept of sowing and reaping is fundamental to the Kingdom of God. Jesus said so. He also said that if you don't understand this, you will never understand the Kingdom.
Let’s Stay in Step
Having been born of the Spirit, we have God’s life in us. We are children, not slaves, and we are created righteous and holy by nature (Ephesians 4:24). This God-life is a free gift. The Spirit has given us new life, now our life’s quest is learning to “keep in step with the Spirit.”
2024: It’s Miracle Time!
"As we head into a year of uncharted instability, let’s remember who we are, whose we are, and why we are. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but they are mighty. We are here to make an impact, not hide in our holes."
Let’s Stay Out of the Ditch
Jesus said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Receiving is a good thing, it’s just not as good as giving! Therein lies the key to staying out of the ditch on both sides of the road. I want to avoid greed and covetousness, but I also don’t want to overcorrect and glorify lack.
Live to a Higher Standard
The Law gave us a blueprint for the kind of generosity that God intends for His image-bearers. The New Birth put that blueprint in our hearts. God’s principles and provision have not changed, but we have. The New Birth transformed our nature, enabling us to reach higher toward living up to the original design.
Let’s Return to Him
The tithe is for the purpose of taking care of the house of God, the ministry, and those in need. Those purposes have not changed. What has changed is the heart of those who believe in Jesus Christ.
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