It's not about the money

“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25).

Through out the bible we see many passages about giving. As the passage above shows, we give to receive. When we help others that help will always find it's way back to us.

When I talk to people about church, the first thing that most complain about is the continual passing of the plate during services. I have to agree. It seems that more and more today, the church focuses on getting money, more than helping improve the congregation’s spiritual life. I find distain as the plate is passed from one to the other, each looking to see what the other dropped in. You will hear me say this often; it's Christianity not competitive Christianity. We all do what we can.

It seems to me that most have more time than money, and some more money than time. I think it is very important to remember that there is far more to do within the Church than give money away. People’s time is far more valuable, and it is just as hard to come by. Take time out of your schedule to help spread the word. Help someone in need; make time to help someone see the Lord's grace. The important thing is to remember that it is not how much you put in the plate that counts. All the money in the world will not buy your way in to heaven......it might buy your way up the ladder of some churches, but make no mistake that ladder will stop just short of salvation.

So do not be bullied, and let yourself miss out on the wonderful offerings that can be found in Church services. Know that it's not about the money; it is about you and your relationship with Christ. The Lord is well aware of what you can do. So do what you can, when you can. Do not get caught by the snare of Competitive Christianity.

We are here for each other, to advance the word of God. Not to get caught up in the bickering of who does more. We should help one another, and be there for one another. It is well known that even the disciples bickered among themselves about whom the favored one was, who gave the most, who served the best. When they questioned Jesus on this in Matthew 20: 26-28. Jesus told them:
"26Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
It is clear, that for us to follow the path of the Lord, we must serve others. That is the objective, just as Christ gave his life for many, we must give of our time, to help those in need. I'll say it again. It's not about the money.

PeaceRev. T