Something that made me go...huh!

But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of giving [grace] also. (2 Corinthians 8:7)

It was several years ago, I came across this verse during my own personal devotional time and it caused me to hit the pause button.  In this moment, I was forced to take an inventory of my walk with God.  I have grown up in the church and experienced God’s grace in many areas.  I went to college to become an engineer to find myself on a total life altering path that would lead me to full-time ministry. Over the years, I have seen God lead me to do youth ministry, young adult ministry, and now as a lead pastor/church planter.  All through the journey, I have seen my faith grow and I regularly find myself trusting God more and more.  Over the years, my heart for ministry, for people and for God has grown by leaps and bounds.  Many portions of the verse above have fit into my experiences of God.

However, the last few words of the verse challenge me – “excel in this act of giving.”  As a young Christian, I have learned that the Bible teaches all believers to give proportionally of their income (10%).  Something that I have kept a conviction about for years.  I have kept that practice regular in good times and even in hard times…but what does it mean to excel in the act of giving?

My challenge is to you to spend some time thinking and learning what it means to “excel” in the act of giving.  Each day challenge yourself to do something generous.  Notice how it touches the lives of others and what freedom it brings to your own life.

As a church, our desire is to be people that…

1. Love God

2. Live with Purpose

3. Give Generously

Giving can be a transformational discipline. I believe this journey could be the transformation you are looking for in your walk with God. It will refresh your perspective and rejuvenate your life. I can’t wait to see what God does in you and through you!