By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place… Let us go right into the presence of God… Hebrews 10:20–22 (NLT)  When Jesus walked the planet, the religious leaders of His time had no idea that something big was about to change. Instead of sacrificing sheep and goats to temporarily cover their sins so they could access God, Jesus was to be the ultimate sacrifice, and that would change everything.  The religious leaders were waiting for a Messiah to free them, but when He finally came, they hated Him. Their hatred led them to brutally beat and crucify the one God had sent to fulfill the prophecies they held so dear. Jesus taught clearly that He …

Giving grows out of the heart—otherwise, you’ve reluctantly grumbled “yes” because you felt you had to or because you couldn’t say “no,” but this isn’t the way God wants it. For we know that “God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 (VOICE)  Many people have never started a habit of giving. Some simply weren’t raised to be generous. For others, they may be in a tight spot where they’ve lost a job, and giving is the last thing on their mind.  But let me introduce you to God’s view of giving. He wants you to give what you feel good about. He loves a cheerful giver! If we give out of fear or guilt, that’s not faith.  I’m not saying giving is always easy. Sometimes I’ll be …

But I will say this to encourage your generosity: the one who plants little harvests little, and the one who plants plenty harvests plenty. 2 Corinthians 9:6 (VOICE)  What happens when you give? Some of us were raised to give and never expect anything back. Yet God’s Word clearly says that when you give generously, blessing is coming back to you.  Imagine a farmer who buys the seed and equipment to plant a wheat field. His wife asks him, “What do you think we’re going to get per acre?” The farmer replies, “Oh no, we’re not planting to get anything. That would be wrong, and God wouldn’t be pleased. We’re going to abandon that field and not expect anything in return.” That would be one poor, empty-handed farmer!  God …

Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” Matthew 10:16 (NKJV)  Living generously is exciting. It gives you a sense of purpose and anticipation as you start every morning thinking, “Who can I bless today?”  While I love finding ways to meet people’s needs, I’m also very aware of what I call “manipulators.” Have you ever been manipulated for money?  Years ago, there was a man attending our church who was a pro at it. He would walk around looking dejected, and inevitably a kind couple would say, “Hey, are you okay? You look a little down.”  He would then spin a story about how he couldn’t pay his hydro bills, afford groceries or even …

“And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 (NLT)  There’s something powerful about generosity.   For one thing, it feels great to be on the receiving end. I could tell you countless stories of when Sally and I were believing God to meet a need, and someone came along to bless us out of the blue.  At the same time, there’s a passion in me to be someone who gives to others. I remember one couple at my dad’s church when I was a teenager. The man had lost his job and was struggling to even put …