A few weeks back, I had a short conversation with a famous Christian expert/author/professor. I shared my difficulty finding young people preparing for ministry who are willing to serve in churches if the positions don’t pay well.
I attempted to share how I’ve tried obeying God, regardless of how that obedience may affect our bank account. I attempted to share how God honors our obedience by continually surprising us with special donations from generous people, how he provides all our needs.
Instead, he interrupted me. He said I would understand when I was older (or, more precisely, when our kids were older and had expensive extracurricular activities).
A singing group from another church asked if they could lead music at Renovation Community’s worship service tonight. I agreed to the idea.
I kind of thought I was doing them a favor, the chance to showcase for an hour and a half the talents God gave them. The group brought about 35 people from their church to attend with them. Then, these 50+ people took an offering, designating 100% of the money to my wife and me.
I didn’t ask the group to come. I wasn’t strategizing how to increase our giving. I didn’t ask them to take an offering. And I certainly didn’t ask them to collect $909 for my family!
“When I get older,” I pray I never “grow out of” how I now understand God…that he loves his children and faithfully provides all we need as we obediently follow him.
Money comes from God, not people. The best way to make sure my family has the money we need is to do exactly what God wants me to do. God is faithful.
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19