Read: Psalm 34
The Only One
As a teacher with many years of experience in secondary school and college classrooms, I have observed many kinds of students. One in particular is what I call the “just me and the teacher” student. This pupil has a kind of one-to-one conversation with the teacher—almost as if no one else were in the class. The teacher’s rhetorical questions, for instance, result in verbal answers from this student—oblivious to anyone else’s reaction. While the class is filled with other pupils, this one seems to think it’s “just me and the teacher.”
As I watched one of these students recently and saw him command the teacher’s attention, I thought, He’s on to something. He has the focus we all need to have when we pray.
The thought that millions of other Christians are talking to God as we pray should never cause us to feel that we are less important. No, as we talk to our everywhere-present, all-knowing, all-powerful God , we should be confident that He is giving us His full attention. David said, “This poor man cried out, and The Lord heard him” (Psalm 34:6). God directs single-minded attention toward our praise, our requests and our concerns.
When you pray, to Him you are the only one. - Dave Branon
So lift up your heart to the heavens;
There’s a loving and kind Father there
Who offers release—comfort and peace—
In the silent communication of prayer. - Anon
Though millions are bending God’s ear in prayer, He listens to each individually.
Prayer:
V Pray any members of your congregation who are suffering from any kind of illness that they will ask for and except help when offered.
V Remember to pray for Pearl Doherty and her husband John during this time of unknown in regards to Pearl’s health.
Wednesday, 31 August 2011
Tuesday, 30 August 2011
Tuesday 30 August 2011
Read: Matthew 6:9-15
How Can I Forgive?
If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. -Matthew 6:15
Some of life’s hurts are so deep and painful that to forgive the people who caused them seems impossible. Yet Jesus said that we can’t experience His forgiveness if we have an unforgiving spirit.
In World War II, Corrie ten Boom and her sister Betsie were arrested for concealing Jews and were sent to a German concentration camp. Betsie died a slow and terrible death as a result of the cruel treatment.
Then, in 1947, Corrie spoke about God’s forgiveness to a church in Munich. Afterwards, a man sought her out. She recognised him as one of the guards who had mistreated her and Betsie. He told her that he had become a Christian, and with an extended hand he asked for her forgiveness. Corrie struggled with her feelings, but when she recalled the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:15, she knew she had to forgive . She silently prayed, “Jesus, Help me!” and thrust her hand into the hand of her cruel tormentor.
Someone has said, “Forgiveness is not a case of ‘holy amnesia’ that wipes the past. Instead, it is the experience of healing that drains the poison from the wound.”
God asks us to do for others what He has done for us. He’ll give us strength to forgive. - Dennis De Haan
Lord Jesus, give us grace each day
That we may follow in Your way,
Especially when some unloved soul
Needs our forgiving to be whole. -D.De Haan
Since we all need forgiveness, we should always be forgiving.
Prayer:
V Pray for the recent media coverage about marriage that the members of Parliament will understand God’s command that marriage must always be only between man and woman.
V Pray that our government will see that their decision must be in the best interests of this country.
How Can I Forgive?
If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. -Matthew 6:15
Some of life’s hurts are so deep and painful that to forgive the people who caused them seems impossible. Yet Jesus said that we can’t experience His forgiveness if we have an unforgiving spirit.
In World War II, Corrie ten Boom and her sister Betsie were arrested for concealing Jews and were sent to a German concentration camp. Betsie died a slow and terrible death as a result of the cruel treatment.
Then, in 1947, Corrie spoke about God’s forgiveness to a church in Munich. Afterwards, a man sought her out. She recognised him as one of the guards who had mistreated her and Betsie. He told her that he had become a Christian, and with an extended hand he asked for her forgiveness. Corrie struggled with her feelings, but when she recalled the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:15, she knew she had to forgive . She silently prayed, “Jesus, Help me!” and thrust her hand into the hand of her cruel tormentor.
Someone has said, “Forgiveness is not a case of ‘holy amnesia’ that wipes the past. Instead, it is the experience of healing that drains the poison from the wound.”
God asks us to do for others what He has done for us. He’ll give us strength to forgive. - Dennis De Haan
Lord Jesus, give us grace each day
That we may follow in Your way,
Especially when some unloved soul
Needs our forgiving to be whole. -D.De Haan
Since we all need forgiveness, we should always be forgiving.
Prayer:
V Pray for the recent media coverage about marriage that the members of Parliament will understand God’s command that marriage must always be only between man and woman.
V Pray that our government will see that their decision must be in the best interests of this country.
Monday, 29 August 2011
Monday 29 August, 2011
Read: John 14:15-26
Sweet Company
The Spirit of truth . . . dwells with you and will be in you. - John 14:17
The elderly woman in the nursing home didn’t speak to anyone or request anything. It seemed she merely existed, rocking in her creaky old chair. She didn’t have any visitors, so one young nurse would often go into her room on her breaks. Without asking the woman questions to try to get her to talk, she simply pulled up a chair and rocked with her. After several months, the elderly woman said to her, “Thank you for rocking with me.” She was grateful for the companionship.
Before He went back to heaven, Jesus promised to send a constant companion to His disciples. He told them He would not leave them alone but would send the Holy Spirit to be in them (John 14:17). That promise is still true for believers in Jesus today. Jesus said that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit make His “home” in us (v 23).
The Lord is our close and faithful companion throughout our entire life. Recording artist Scott Krippayne expresses this truth in song: “In my deepest night He is the guiding star; in my sinfulness He is the forgiving heart; a willing ear for each silent prayer, a shoulder for burdens I cannot bear. Sweet company from now through all eternity.”
We can enjoy His sweet company today. - Anne Cetas
In my bed of thorns, He is the fragrant rose;
In my wilderness, He is the stream that flows;
A shelter built with loving grace,
His refuge shall be my dwelling place. - Krippayne
The Christian’s heart is the Holy Spirit’s home.
Prayer:
V Pray for people in any church congregation who are struggling with the temptations of today’s society and its standards.
V Ask God to help men to stand up and be counted as a trustworthy “man of God”.
Sweet Company
The Spirit of truth . . . dwells with you and will be in you. - John 14:17
The elderly woman in the nursing home didn’t speak to anyone or request anything. It seemed she merely existed, rocking in her creaky old chair. She didn’t have any visitors, so one young nurse would often go into her room on her breaks. Without asking the woman questions to try to get her to talk, she simply pulled up a chair and rocked with her. After several months, the elderly woman said to her, “Thank you for rocking with me.” She was grateful for the companionship.
Before He went back to heaven, Jesus promised to send a constant companion to His disciples. He told them He would not leave them alone but would send the Holy Spirit to be in them (John 14:17). That promise is still true for believers in Jesus today. Jesus said that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit make His “home” in us (v 23).
The Lord is our close and faithful companion throughout our entire life. Recording artist Scott Krippayne expresses this truth in song: “In my deepest night He is the guiding star; in my sinfulness He is the forgiving heart; a willing ear for each silent prayer, a shoulder for burdens I cannot bear. Sweet company from now through all eternity.”
We can enjoy His sweet company today. - Anne Cetas
In my bed of thorns, He is the fragrant rose;
In my wilderness, He is the stream that flows;
A shelter built with loving grace,
His refuge shall be my dwelling place. - Krippayne
The Christian’s heart is the Holy Spirit’s home.
Prayer:
V Pray for people in any church congregation who are struggling with the temptations of today’s society and its standards.
V Ask God to help men to stand up and be counted as a trustworthy “man of God”.
Saturday, 27 August 2011
Saturday August 27, 2011
Read Proverbs 6:6-11; 30:24-25; cf. 13:11, 22; 21:20; 22:3
Saving and Investing
Joseph wisely counselled Pharaoh to store up grain while it was available so that Egypt could draw on these resources in more difficult times (Genesis 41:33-36).
The Proverbs use the ant to illustrate the wisdom of gathering and storing provisions for future needs (Proverbs 6:6-11; 30:24-25; cf. 13:11, 22; 21:20; 22:3). Saving requires the discipline of limiting present expenditures to provide for future needs.
Denial is not popular in a culture that tells us to indulge our appetites, but Scripture counsels us to pursue a path of moderation and self-control (Proverbs 21:17; 23:20-21; 24:27).
Savings are beneficial because they provide a reserve that can be used to pay for unexpected expenses and assist others in special needs. They also enable us to make major purchases without going into debt and paying interest. In addition, savings provide a resource for making investments. However, we should be aware of the built-in danger in savings and investments: they tempt us to put our trust and affection in them rather than God. Believers should never "fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17; 6:10). "He who trusts in his riches will fall" (Proverbs 11:28a).
The Scriptures warn us to avoid risky investments and get-rich-quick schemes. "A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished. . . A man with an evil eye hastens after wealth, and does not know that want will come upon him" (Proverbs 28:20, 22). Money is made gradually, not hastily: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty" (Proverbs 21:5; cf. 13:11; 24:3-4). Investing should be done wisely and systematically (Matthew 25:14-29; Luke 19:12-24).
It is wise to practice caution and diversification in investments to minimize risk (Ecclesiastes 5:13-14, 19; 11:2).
A Heritage for Children
We are responsible to leave an inheritance to our children (Proverbs 13:22; 2 Corinthians 12:14b), but the biggest heritage we can give them is to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Child training (Proverbs 22:6) should include the principles of stewardship and money management. Teaching is necessary, but it must be reinforced by example. Our attitudes toward the spending and saving of money will have a deep influence on the attitudes our children develop. If we are financially undisciplined or materialistic, we will inevitably communicate this to our children, even if our words are otherwise.
Use graduated allowances to teach responsibility in handling money. You may want to show young children how to budget by using a system of envelopes: one for spending, one for saving, and another for sharing. You should also encourage them to earn additional money by doing extra jobs (e.g., washing the car, babysitting, a paper route). Avoid overindulgence--it cheapens the value of money and causes children to lose incentive. Let them set money aside and work for certain things they want so they are not given everything.
REFLECTIONS
1. What is the biblical meaning of stewardship? What is the most basic responsibility of stewardship?
2. What is your attitude toward ownership? Have you fully surrendered your time, talents, and treasure to the Lord?
3. What are you really devoted to? To what extent is your heart set on earthly rather than heavenly treasures? Are you content with what you have?
4. Has your view of debt changed or remained the same after going through this material? If it has changed, are there any adjustments you need to make?
5. Are you using a budget to plan and control spending? If so, is it realistic and flexible?
Prayer:
> Pray that you will be set free to be a true and genuine disciple of Christ Jesus. Pray that you will see sin minimised in your life; pray this for others in your congregation.
> Pray that you will be open to helping others within the body of Christ that need assistance either physically or spiritually.
> Praise God for all the blessings in your life and pray that God will bless those around you that are struggling.
> Continue to pray for the challenge against Chaplaincy in Schools, and pray that God’s name will be victorious.
Saving and Investing
Joseph wisely counselled Pharaoh to store up grain while it was available so that Egypt could draw on these resources in more difficult times (Genesis 41:33-36).
The Proverbs use the ant to illustrate the wisdom of gathering and storing provisions for future needs (Proverbs 6:6-11; 30:24-25; cf. 13:11, 22; 21:20; 22:3). Saving requires the discipline of limiting present expenditures to provide for future needs.
Denial is not popular in a culture that tells us to indulge our appetites, but Scripture counsels us to pursue a path of moderation and self-control (Proverbs 21:17; 23:20-21; 24:27).
Savings are beneficial because they provide a reserve that can be used to pay for unexpected expenses and assist others in special needs. They also enable us to make major purchases without going into debt and paying interest. In addition, savings provide a resource for making investments. However, we should be aware of the built-in danger in savings and investments: they tempt us to put our trust and affection in them rather than God. Believers should never "fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17; 6:10). "He who trusts in his riches will fall" (Proverbs 11:28a).
The Scriptures warn us to avoid risky investments and get-rich-quick schemes. "A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who makes haste to be rich will not go unpunished. . . A man with an evil eye hastens after wealth, and does not know that want will come upon him" (Proverbs 28:20, 22). Money is made gradually, not hastily: "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty" (Proverbs 21:5; cf. 13:11; 24:3-4). Investing should be done wisely and systematically (Matthew 25:14-29; Luke 19:12-24).
It is wise to practice caution and diversification in investments to minimize risk (Ecclesiastes 5:13-14, 19; 11:2).
A Heritage for Children
We are responsible to leave an inheritance to our children (Proverbs 13:22; 2 Corinthians 12:14b), but the biggest heritage we can give them is to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Child training (Proverbs 22:6) should include the principles of stewardship and money management. Teaching is necessary, but it must be reinforced by example. Our attitudes toward the spending and saving of money will have a deep influence on the attitudes our children develop. If we are financially undisciplined or materialistic, we will inevitably communicate this to our children, even if our words are otherwise.
Use graduated allowances to teach responsibility in handling money. You may want to show young children how to budget by using a system of envelopes: one for spending, one for saving, and another for sharing. You should also encourage them to earn additional money by doing extra jobs (e.g., washing the car, babysitting, a paper route). Avoid overindulgence--it cheapens the value of money and causes children to lose incentive. Let them set money aside and work for certain things they want so they are not given everything.
REFLECTIONS
1. What is the biblical meaning of stewardship? What is the most basic responsibility of stewardship?
2. What is your attitude toward ownership? Have you fully surrendered your time, talents, and treasure to the Lord?
3. What are you really devoted to? To what extent is your heart set on earthly rather than heavenly treasures? Are you content with what you have?
4. Has your view of debt changed or remained the same after going through this material? If it has changed, are there any adjustments you need to make?
5. Are you using a budget to plan and control spending? If so, is it realistic and flexible?
Prayer:
> Pray that you will be set free to be a true and genuine disciple of Christ Jesus. Pray that you will see sin minimised in your life; pray this for others in your congregation.
> Pray that you will be open to helping others within the body of Christ that need assistance either physically or spiritually.
> Praise God for all the blessings in your life and pray that God will bless those around you that are struggling.
> Continue to pray for the challenge against Chaplaincy in Schools, and pray that God’s name will be victorious.
Friday, 26 August 2011
Friday August 26, 2011
Read Proverbs 21:17; 23:20-21; 24:27
Budgeting
Many of us are faced with the problem of too much month left at the end of our money. The Scriptures tell us to plan (Prov. 16:3,9; 21:5; 27:23-24; Isa. 32:8; Luke 14:28-30; James. 4:15), and a budget is a tool that will help us do this on a short-range (yearly goals) and long-range (lifetime goals) basis. It takes discipline to put our priorities into practice, and we need to avoid the extremes of no plans (complacency) and rigid plans (legalism).
Benefits of Budgeting
--Enables us to plan and pray through our spending and giving priorities.
--Gives us control over expenditures. Unless they are controlled, expenses will typically rise at a slightly higher rate than income.
--Enhances family communication when the family participates in spending decisions and financial goals. This can ease tension and reduce arguments.
--Limits impulse spending.
--Helps us live within our means.
--Reduces pressure of financial obligations.
--Provides for vacations and major purchases.
--Causes us to organize and prioritize expenditures.
--Sets money aside for emergencies.
--Assists in getting out of debt and creating a surplus so that we can better respond to the needs of others.
--Establishes a reasonable maximum standard of living.
Obstacles to Budgeting
--Unrealistic and inflexible budgets.
--Failure to follow through with a budget. Discouragement can be caused by the required discipline, deferment, and sacrifice.
--Hidden expenses: non-monthly items not taken into account.
--Poor records and bookkeeping errors.
--Social pressure of materialism.
--Confusion of wants and needs.
--Impulse spending: spur-of-the-moment expenditures on unnecessary items.
--Using credit for instant gratification.
--Using credit to delay needed decisions.
--Overspending on gifts (e.g., Christmas).
--Lack of surplus to deal with unexpected expenses.
Tips on Budgeting
--Surrender complete control and ownership of what you have to God.
--Honour the Lord with your money by giving first (Prov. 3:9-10).
--Pray for your needs--God may provide them in ways you could not anticipate.
--Maintain good communication by discussing financial policies openly with your family.
--Keep good records and reconcile your cheque-book each month.
--When you budget, take into account the yearly cost of small items that add up (e.g., lunches and newspapers).
--Be a good steward in your spending. Ask questions like these when
considering a purchase: Do I need it? Am I buying it for materialistic reasons? Will it hinder my spiritual growth? Can I afford it? Is it the best buy? Have I asked God to supply this need in His way and time? (Ps. 37:4-5; 1 Cor. 6:12; 1 Tim. 6:9; 1 John 2:15.)
--Credit cards should only be used as a convenience when they are paid in full each month so that no interest is charged. If we use them to borrow against next month's check to satisfy present cravings, they will throw our budgets off.
--Set up a savings account and make monthly deposits into it for emergencies and non-monthly bills like car insurance.
--Do not become a victim of impulse spending. When you have an urge to make an unplanned expenditure, put it down on an impulse list and date it. Wait thirty days and pray about it before making the purchase. You will find that most of these impulses will not last.
--Budget an equal personal allowance for the husband and wife for which they are not accountable.
--Remember that the more money we make, the harder it is to live by faith and the more careless we tend to get about expenditures. It always takes discipline to keep from spending to the limit of our income.
Steps in Budgeting
1. Determine your current situation by keeping a strict record of every dollar spent in the next two months.
2. Create an accurate budget of what you are currently spending and earning. Include expenses that do not come due every month by estimating each on an annual basis and dividing by twelve.
3. Determine where you want to be by analysing your existing budget and deciding what changes need to be made. You may need to find ways of reducing expenses or adding income.
4. Reassess and adjust your budget periodically.
5. Don't give up. It may be frustrating, but a budget will save you money, help you stay out of debt, and enable you to plan for the future.
Materials like the Family Financial Planning Workbook issued by Christian Financial Concepts are available to guide you in budgeting. This workbook includes monthly income and expense forms, percentage guidelines (e.g., what percentage of income after taxes and giving should go to housing, food, auto, clothing, etc.), and other useful forms.
Having studied stewardship now for several weeks, it’s time to start seriously thinking about your level of giving. Considering all that you have learnt, write down what you will give back to the Lord in your time, talents & treasures. Ask someone else to keep you accountable for your pledge to the Lord.
Prayer:
> Praise God for His forgiveness, ask, confess and seek God to forgive the temptations you have fallen into and ask Him to show you how to have a more productive God centred use of your time.
Budgeting
Many of us are faced with the problem of too much month left at the end of our money. The Scriptures tell us to plan (Prov. 16:3,9; 21:5; 27:23-24; Isa. 32:8; Luke 14:28-30; James. 4:15), and a budget is a tool that will help us do this on a short-range (yearly goals) and long-range (lifetime goals) basis. It takes discipline to put our priorities into practice, and we need to avoid the extremes of no plans (complacency) and rigid plans (legalism).
Benefits of Budgeting
--Enables us to plan and pray through our spending and giving priorities.
--Gives us control over expenditures. Unless they are controlled, expenses will typically rise at a slightly higher rate than income.
--Enhances family communication when the family participates in spending decisions and financial goals. This can ease tension and reduce arguments.
--Limits impulse spending.
--Helps us live within our means.
--Reduces pressure of financial obligations.
--Provides for vacations and major purchases.
--Causes us to organize and prioritize expenditures.
--Sets money aside for emergencies.
--Assists in getting out of debt and creating a surplus so that we can better respond to the needs of others.
--Establishes a reasonable maximum standard of living.
Obstacles to Budgeting
--Unrealistic and inflexible budgets.
--Failure to follow through with a budget. Discouragement can be caused by the required discipline, deferment, and sacrifice.
--Hidden expenses: non-monthly items not taken into account.
--Poor records and bookkeeping errors.
--Social pressure of materialism.
--Confusion of wants and needs.
--Impulse spending: spur-of-the-moment expenditures on unnecessary items.
--Using credit for instant gratification.
--Using credit to delay needed decisions.
--Overspending on gifts (e.g., Christmas).
--Lack of surplus to deal with unexpected expenses.
Tips on Budgeting
--Surrender complete control and ownership of what you have to God.
--Honour the Lord with your money by giving first (Prov. 3:9-10).
--Pray for your needs--God may provide them in ways you could not anticipate.
--Maintain good communication by discussing financial policies openly with your family.
--Keep good records and reconcile your cheque-book each month.
--When you budget, take into account the yearly cost of small items that add up (e.g., lunches and newspapers).
--Be a good steward in your spending. Ask questions like these when
considering a purchase: Do I need it? Am I buying it for materialistic reasons? Will it hinder my spiritual growth? Can I afford it? Is it the best buy? Have I asked God to supply this need in His way and time? (Ps. 37:4-5; 1 Cor. 6:12; 1 Tim. 6:9; 1 John 2:15.)
--Credit cards should only be used as a convenience when they are paid in full each month so that no interest is charged. If we use them to borrow against next month's check to satisfy present cravings, they will throw our budgets off.
--Set up a savings account and make monthly deposits into it for emergencies and non-monthly bills like car insurance.
--Do not become a victim of impulse spending. When you have an urge to make an unplanned expenditure, put it down on an impulse list and date it. Wait thirty days and pray about it before making the purchase. You will find that most of these impulses will not last.
--Budget an equal personal allowance for the husband and wife for which they are not accountable.
--Remember that the more money we make, the harder it is to live by faith and the more careless we tend to get about expenditures. It always takes discipline to keep from spending to the limit of our income.
Steps in Budgeting
1. Determine your current situation by keeping a strict record of every dollar spent in the next two months.
2. Create an accurate budget of what you are currently spending and earning. Include expenses that do not come due every month by estimating each on an annual basis and dividing by twelve.
3. Determine where you want to be by analysing your existing budget and deciding what changes need to be made. You may need to find ways of reducing expenses or adding income.
4. Reassess and adjust your budget periodically.
5. Don't give up. It may be frustrating, but a budget will save you money, help you stay out of debt, and enable you to plan for the future.
Materials like the Family Financial Planning Workbook issued by Christian Financial Concepts are available to guide you in budgeting. This workbook includes monthly income and expense forms, percentage guidelines (e.g., what percentage of income after taxes and giving should go to housing, food, auto, clothing, etc.), and other useful forms.
Having studied stewardship now for several weeks, it’s time to start seriously thinking about your level of giving. Considering all that you have learnt, write down what you will give back to the Lord in your time, talents & treasures. Ask someone else to keep you accountable for your pledge to the Lord.
Prayer:
> Praise God for His forgiveness, ask, confess and seek God to forgive the temptations you have fallen into and ask Him to show you how to have a more productive God centred use of your time.
Thursday, 25 August 2011
Thursday August 25, 2011
Read 1 Corinthians 16:2, 2 Corinthians 8:3; 9:6-11
HOW to Give
Using 1 Corinthians 16:2 and 2 Corinthians 8:3; 9:6-11, the New Testament teaching on sharing can be summarized with seven p's:
1. Periodic. "On the first day of every week" (1 Corinthians 16:2).
2. Personal. "Let each one of you" (1 Cor. 16:2); "let each one" (2 Cor. 9:7).
3. Planned. "Put aside and save" (1 Corinthians 16:2); "do just as he has purposed in his heart" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
4. Proportionate. "As he may prosper" (1 Corinthians 16:2)
5. Plentiful. "He who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully" (2 Corinthians 9:6); "you will be enriched in everything for all liberality" (2 Corinthians 9:11).
6. Painful. "Beyond their ability they gave of their own accord" (2 Cor. 8:3).
7. Positive. "Not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Cor. 9:7).
Exercise: Go through this list of seven p's and evaluate your program of
sharing in the light of each. Where do changes need to be made?
Debt
The Problem of Enslavement
The world and national economies are plagued by the twin problems of inflation and instability. In the ten-year period from 1974 to 1984, government debt increased 190%, business debt increased 188% , and individual debt increased 173%. On every level, individuals and institutions are borrowing money at unprecedented rates and becoming enslaved to burdens of debt they cannot pay back. With national and corporate debt at approximately one trillion dollars each and private debt at the three-trillion dollar level, interest payments are intolerable.
It has been said that "The modern American is a person who drives a bank-financed car over a bond-financed highway on credit-card gas on his way to a open a charge account at a department store so he can fill his savings-and-loan financed home with instalment-purchased furniture." The bondage of debt produces personal stress and interpersonal tension, and it is not surprising that financial problems are a major contributing factor to divorce. It is as though the wedding vows have been changed to "till debt do us part."
Wants Versus Needs
Borrowing has become a way of life in America. Our culture is riddled with materialism, and it is a rare Christian who is not tempted to live beyond his means. If like everyone else, we succumb to the value system that tells us that more is better; our expenditures will rise to meet our income and tend to surpass it. The whole system of commercials and advertisements is designed to create a sense of dissatisfaction with what we have. As a result, contentment is replaced by covetousness as we fail to distinguish our wants from our needs (Phil. 4:19) or rationalize our wants into needs.
Because of these attitudes and the unparalleled ease of getting credit (Americans have over 600 million credit cards); we allow debt to gradually accumulate by buying now and paying later. Instant gratification is so readily available that many Christians find it easier to trust credit than God in the area of material things. They put themselves in impossible financial positions and then ask God to bail them out when they are on the brink of disaster.
As someone put it, "It's not the high cost of living; it's the cost of high living." The average family's ambition is to make as much money as it is spending. With interest rates as they are, those "easy monthly payments" are not so easy.
Old Testament Principles
The Scriptures consistently tell us to avoid the debt trap. "The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender's slave" (Proverbs 22:7). "The wicked borrows and does not pay back, but the righteous is gracious and gives" (Psalm 37:21). Borrowing and lending were allowed but controlled by the Mosaic law (Exodus 22:25; Deuteronomy 15:7-8). Interest could be charged from foreigners, but not from fellow Israelites (Leviticus 25:35-37; Deuteronomy 23:19-20). Collateral could be taken as a pledge of repayment, but this was strictly limited (Exodus 22:26-27; Deut. 24:6, 10-13, 17). To prevent excessive indebtedness, all debts incurred by Israelites were remitted on the seventh (sabbatical) year (Deuteronomy 15:1-3).
The wisdom of Proverbs is strongly opposed to co-signing loans by pledging one's assets against another's debt. "A man lacking in sense pledges, and becomes surety in the presence of his neighbour" (Proverbs 17:18). "Do not be among those who give pledges, among those who become sureties for debts. If you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take your bed from under you?" (Proverbs 22:26-27). Few co-signers plan to pay another's debt, but about 50% are forced to do just that. See Proverbs 6:1-5; 11:15; 27:13.
New Testament Principles
The New Testament teaches that we are not to become enslaved to debt. "Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbour has fulfilled the law" (Romans 13:8). God wants us to be free to serve Him first, but to the extent that we are indebted to men, to that extent we are under their dominion and entangled "in the affairs of everyday life" (2 Timothy 2:4). "You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men" (1 Corinthians 7:23; cf. Matthew 18:23-34).
When We Can Owe Money
This is a debatable issue, but most Christian investment counsellors believe that there are certain circumstances in which it is legitimate to borrow money. Some limit this to appreciating assets or assets which produce an income. Another common criterion is that the value of the asset should equal or exceed the amount borrowed to obtain it. The clearest criterion is the ability to repay without straining one's budget. Loans for a house, business, and education usually meet the first two criteria, but not always the third. And even if all three conditions are fulfilled, this does not mean that a loan is appropriate in every case.
Getting Out of Debt
When you are unable to pay an entire billing on an account or if the amount you owe on an item exceeds its asset value, you have joined the debt set. In his book, Your Money: Frustration or Freedom? Howard L. Dayton, Jr. has suggested eight steps for getting out of the entrapment of debt:
1. Establish a written budget. A budget allows you to analyse where you are, to
plan where you want to go, and to control impulse spending. Few people who follow a written budget get into financial trouble.
2. Make a list of all your assets, including cash and assets easily convertible to cash, real estate, automobiles and other personal property, investments, and receivables. Evaluate each of these to see if there are any you can sell to cut your indebtedness.
3. Make a list of all your debts. Most people do not know what they owe. Write down the monthly payment, the interest rate, and the balance due. The goal is to pay off the items that have the highest interest rate first.
4. Establish a repayment schedule for each debt you have. Include the creditor, monthly payment, months remaining, and balance due. This requires discipline and effort, but it's worth it. It is encouraging when you can tear one of these schedules up.
5. Consider possible sources of additional income to get out of debt more quickly. The only ways to get out of debt are to reduce spending and/or increase income. If you find a way to supplement your income, be sure to use it to retire debt and not to spend more.
6. Accumulate no new debt. You might consider doing "plastic surgery" on your credit cards.
7. Be content with what you have. Since advertising is designed to create a lack of contentment, try to expose yourself less to the temptations caused by television commercials (about 26 an hour), newspaper and magazine advertisements, catalogues, and window shopping.
8. Don't give up. It may be a long and hard road to "D" day (debtless day)--perhaps 3, 5, or 10 years. You will often want to quit or delay your program because of the major reversals of lowering your standard of living and paying off the principal and interest that you owe. But the joy and freedom when you arrive is worth the struggle.
Prayer:
> Pray that God will bring healing and wholeness to those in the congregation who are suffering.
> Pray for opportunities for you to spread God’s Word among your community, ie your neighbours.
> Pray that you are open and willing to carry out God’s will in your life.
HOW to Give
Using 1 Corinthians 16:2 and 2 Corinthians 8:3; 9:6-11, the New Testament teaching on sharing can be summarized with seven p's:
1. Periodic. "On the first day of every week" (1 Corinthians 16:2).
2. Personal. "Let each one of you" (1 Cor. 16:2); "let each one" (2 Cor. 9:7).
3. Planned. "Put aside and save" (1 Corinthians 16:2); "do just as he has purposed in his heart" (2 Corinthians 9:7).
4. Proportionate. "As he may prosper" (1 Corinthians 16:2)
5. Plentiful. "He who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully" (2 Corinthians 9:6); "you will be enriched in everything for all liberality" (2 Corinthians 9:11).
6. Painful. "Beyond their ability they gave of their own accord" (2 Cor. 8:3).
7. Positive. "Not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Cor. 9:7).
Exercise: Go through this list of seven p's and evaluate your program of
sharing in the light of each. Where do changes need to be made?
Debt
The Problem of Enslavement
The world and national economies are plagued by the twin problems of inflation and instability. In the ten-year period from 1974 to 1984, government debt increased 190%, business debt increased 188% , and individual debt increased 173%. On every level, individuals and institutions are borrowing money at unprecedented rates and becoming enslaved to burdens of debt they cannot pay back. With national and corporate debt at approximately one trillion dollars each and private debt at the three-trillion dollar level, interest payments are intolerable.
It has been said that "The modern American is a person who drives a bank-financed car over a bond-financed highway on credit-card gas on his way to a open a charge account at a department store so he can fill his savings-and-loan financed home with instalment-purchased furniture." The bondage of debt produces personal stress and interpersonal tension, and it is not surprising that financial problems are a major contributing factor to divorce. It is as though the wedding vows have been changed to "till debt do us part."
Wants Versus Needs
Borrowing has become a way of life in America. Our culture is riddled with materialism, and it is a rare Christian who is not tempted to live beyond his means. If like everyone else, we succumb to the value system that tells us that more is better; our expenditures will rise to meet our income and tend to surpass it. The whole system of commercials and advertisements is designed to create a sense of dissatisfaction with what we have. As a result, contentment is replaced by covetousness as we fail to distinguish our wants from our needs (Phil. 4:19) or rationalize our wants into needs.
Because of these attitudes and the unparalleled ease of getting credit (Americans have over 600 million credit cards); we allow debt to gradually accumulate by buying now and paying later. Instant gratification is so readily available that many Christians find it easier to trust credit than God in the area of material things. They put themselves in impossible financial positions and then ask God to bail them out when they are on the brink of disaster.
As someone put it, "It's not the high cost of living; it's the cost of high living." The average family's ambition is to make as much money as it is spending. With interest rates as they are, those "easy monthly payments" are not so easy.
Old Testament Principles
The Scriptures consistently tell us to avoid the debt trap. "The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender's slave" (Proverbs 22:7). "The wicked borrows and does not pay back, but the righteous is gracious and gives" (Psalm 37:21). Borrowing and lending were allowed but controlled by the Mosaic law (Exodus 22:25; Deuteronomy 15:7-8). Interest could be charged from foreigners, but not from fellow Israelites (Leviticus 25:35-37; Deuteronomy 23:19-20). Collateral could be taken as a pledge of repayment, but this was strictly limited (Exodus 22:26-27; Deut. 24:6, 10-13, 17). To prevent excessive indebtedness, all debts incurred by Israelites were remitted on the seventh (sabbatical) year (Deuteronomy 15:1-3).
The wisdom of Proverbs is strongly opposed to co-signing loans by pledging one's assets against another's debt. "A man lacking in sense pledges, and becomes surety in the presence of his neighbour" (Proverbs 17:18). "Do not be among those who give pledges, among those who become sureties for debts. If you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take your bed from under you?" (Proverbs 22:26-27). Few co-signers plan to pay another's debt, but about 50% are forced to do just that. See Proverbs 6:1-5; 11:15; 27:13.
New Testament Principles
The New Testament teaches that we are not to become enslaved to debt. "Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbour has fulfilled the law" (Romans 13:8). God wants us to be free to serve Him first, but to the extent that we are indebted to men, to that extent we are under their dominion and entangled "in the affairs of everyday life" (2 Timothy 2:4). "You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men" (1 Corinthians 7:23; cf. Matthew 18:23-34).
When We Can Owe Money
This is a debatable issue, but most Christian investment counsellors believe that there are certain circumstances in which it is legitimate to borrow money. Some limit this to appreciating assets or assets which produce an income. Another common criterion is that the value of the asset should equal or exceed the amount borrowed to obtain it. The clearest criterion is the ability to repay without straining one's budget. Loans for a house, business, and education usually meet the first two criteria, but not always the third. And even if all three conditions are fulfilled, this does not mean that a loan is appropriate in every case.
Getting Out of Debt
When you are unable to pay an entire billing on an account or if the amount you owe on an item exceeds its asset value, you have joined the debt set. In his book, Your Money: Frustration or Freedom? Howard L. Dayton, Jr. has suggested eight steps for getting out of the entrapment of debt:
1. Establish a written budget. A budget allows you to analyse where you are, to
plan where you want to go, and to control impulse spending. Few people who follow a written budget get into financial trouble.
2. Make a list of all your assets, including cash and assets easily convertible to cash, real estate, automobiles and other personal property, investments, and receivables. Evaluate each of these to see if there are any you can sell to cut your indebtedness.
3. Make a list of all your debts. Most people do not know what they owe. Write down the monthly payment, the interest rate, and the balance due. The goal is to pay off the items that have the highest interest rate first.
4. Establish a repayment schedule for each debt you have. Include the creditor, monthly payment, months remaining, and balance due. This requires discipline and effort, but it's worth it. It is encouraging when you can tear one of these schedules up.
5. Consider possible sources of additional income to get out of debt more quickly. The only ways to get out of debt are to reduce spending and/or increase income. If you find a way to supplement your income, be sure to use it to retire debt and not to spend more.
6. Accumulate no new debt. You might consider doing "plastic surgery" on your credit cards.
7. Be content with what you have. Since advertising is designed to create a lack of contentment, try to expose yourself less to the temptations caused by television commercials (about 26 an hour), newspaper and magazine advertisements, catalogues, and window shopping.
8. Don't give up. It may be a long and hard road to "D" day (debtless day)--perhaps 3, 5, or 10 years. You will often want to quit or delay your program because of the major reversals of lowering your standard of living and paying off the principal and interest that you owe. But the joy and freedom when you arrive is worth the struggle.
Prayer:
> Pray that God will bring healing and wholeness to those in the congregation who are suffering.
> Pray for opportunities for you to spread God’s Word among your community, ie your neighbours.
> Pray that you are open and willing to carry out God’s will in your life.
Wednesday, 24 August 2011
Wednesday August 24, 2011
Read Mark 12:41-44
WHAT to Give
Giving in the Old Testament: Tithing appears prior to the Mosaic law. Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils to Melchizedek in Genesis 14:20, and after his dream, Jacob vowed to give a tenth to God (Genesis 28:20-22). Under the Mosaic law, the Israelites were required to give not one, but three tithes.
Two of these tithes were annual, one for the Levites (Leviticus 27:30-33; Numbers 18:21-24) and one for an annual feast in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 12:5-6, 11; 14:22-27). The third was a triennial tithe for aliens, orphans, and widows (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Thus, tithing under the law consisted of about 22 percent of one's income, not 10 percent as is usually supposed. In addition, the Israelites could give freewill offerings that were above and beyond these tithes (Exodus 25:2; Deuteronomy 12:6; Malachi 3:8).
Giving in the New Testament: The tithe is mentioned in the New Testament only in relationship to the Mosaic law (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42; 18:12) and the superiority of the priesthood of Melchizedek to that of Levi (Hebrews 7:4-10). The law is no longer binding today (Romans 10:4; Gal. 3:24-25), and the New Testament does not apply the tithe to Christians.
Giving is now based on grace, not law. The New Testament provides two guidelines.
The first is that each believer should give proportionately ("as he may prosper," 1 Corinthians 16:2). The tithe was the least God ever asked anyone to give, and we may be wise to regard it as a minimum amount. We are the most prosperous people who have ever lived, and our giving should reflect this.
The second guideline is that believers should give sacrificially. Christ is the supreme example of sacrificial giving (2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:15), and Paul uses this in 2 Corinthians 8-9 as a model for us to follow. "For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord" (2 Corinthians 8:3; cf. 8:1-9; 9:5-15).
Sharing is an investment in eternity and an external testimony of an internal commitment. As Mark 12:41-44 makes clear, there is a difference between convenient giving and costly giving. If God blesses us with material prosperity, He may want us to give more rather than buy more. Proportional and sacrificial giving for some Christians may be 10 %; for others, it may be 15, 25, or 50 %. In any case, consider raising the amount you share each year by one or two %.
"Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; you will be enriched in everything for all liberality" (2 Corinthians 8:10-11a).
WHEN to Give
Concerning Paul's collection for the believers who were poor in Jerusalem, he instructed the Galatians and Corinthians to "put aside and save" on "the first day of every week" (1 Corinthians 16:1-3). Giving should be planned and periodic, not erratic.
Some giving will be on an ongoing basis, but it is also a good idea to set aside money for special needs and projects that arise from time to time (Acts 11:27-30; Romans 15:25-27; 2 Cor. 9:3-5; Phil. 4:16-18; Titus 3:14). Money for giving should be set aside before you pay bills (Prov. 3:9). You may want to plan your giving with your family on Sundays so that it will be seen as a family outreach.
WHERE to Give
1. In addition to providing for their families, believers are responsible to support those who minister the Word (1 Corinthians 9:6-14; Gal. 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17-18), to share with believers in need (Acts 4:32-35; 11:29; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; 9:6-15; Hebrews 13:16; James. 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17), and to provide for the poor (Proverbs 14:31; 19:17; 21:13; 28:27; Isaiah 58:6-7; Luke 3:11; 19:8-9; Galatians 2:10; Ephesians 4:28).
Prayer:
> Praise God for the freedom we have in this country that we can gather to worship and have many wonderful resources at our disposal.
> Pray that we will use these resources to help grow the Church and that we will always be open to opportunities to share the gospel with our friends and family.
> Pray that others in the congregation are open to sharing the gospel and are willing to learn how best to approach people with His good news.
WHAT to Give
Giving in the Old Testament: Tithing appears prior to the Mosaic law. Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils to Melchizedek in Genesis 14:20, and after his dream, Jacob vowed to give a tenth to God (Genesis 28:20-22). Under the Mosaic law, the Israelites were required to give not one, but three tithes.
Two of these tithes were annual, one for the Levites (Leviticus 27:30-33; Numbers 18:21-24) and one for an annual feast in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 12:5-6, 11; 14:22-27). The third was a triennial tithe for aliens, orphans, and widows (Deuteronomy 14:28-29). Thus, tithing under the law consisted of about 22 percent of one's income, not 10 percent as is usually supposed. In addition, the Israelites could give freewill offerings that were above and beyond these tithes (Exodus 25:2; Deuteronomy 12:6; Malachi 3:8).
Giving in the New Testament: The tithe is mentioned in the New Testament only in relationship to the Mosaic law (Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42; 18:12) and the superiority of the priesthood of Melchizedek to that of Levi (Hebrews 7:4-10). The law is no longer binding today (Romans 10:4; Gal. 3:24-25), and the New Testament does not apply the tithe to Christians.
Giving is now based on grace, not law. The New Testament provides two guidelines.
The first is that each believer should give proportionately ("as he may prosper," 1 Corinthians 16:2). The tithe was the least God ever asked anyone to give, and we may be wise to regard it as a minimum amount. We are the most prosperous people who have ever lived, and our giving should reflect this.
The second guideline is that believers should give sacrificially. Christ is the supreme example of sacrificial giving (2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:15), and Paul uses this in 2 Corinthians 8-9 as a model for us to follow. "For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord" (2 Corinthians 8:3; cf. 8:1-9; 9:5-15).
Sharing is an investment in eternity and an external testimony of an internal commitment. As Mark 12:41-44 makes clear, there is a difference between convenient giving and costly giving. If God blesses us with material prosperity, He may want us to give more rather than buy more. Proportional and sacrificial giving for some Christians may be 10 %; for others, it may be 15, 25, or 50 %. In any case, consider raising the amount you share each year by one or two %.
"Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food, will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness; you will be enriched in everything for all liberality" (2 Corinthians 8:10-11a).
WHEN to Give
Concerning Paul's collection for the believers who were poor in Jerusalem, he instructed the Galatians and Corinthians to "put aside and save" on "the first day of every week" (1 Corinthians 16:1-3). Giving should be planned and periodic, not erratic.
Some giving will be on an ongoing basis, but it is also a good idea to set aside money for special needs and projects that arise from time to time (Acts 11:27-30; Romans 15:25-27; 2 Cor. 9:3-5; Phil. 4:16-18; Titus 3:14). Money for giving should be set aside before you pay bills (Prov. 3:9). You may want to plan your giving with your family on Sundays so that it will be seen as a family outreach.
WHERE to Give
1. In addition to providing for their families, believers are responsible to support those who minister the Word (1 Corinthians 9:6-14; Gal. 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17-18), to share with believers in need (Acts 4:32-35; 11:29; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-15; 9:6-15; Hebrews 13:16; James. 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17), and to provide for the poor (Proverbs 14:31; 19:17; 21:13; 28:27; Isaiah 58:6-7; Luke 3:11; 19:8-9; Galatians 2:10; Ephesians 4:28).
Prayer:
> Praise God for the freedom we have in this country that we can gather to worship and have many wonderful resources at our disposal.
> Pray that we will use these resources to help grow the Church and that we will always be open to opportunities to share the gospel with our friends and family.
> Pray that others in the congregation are open to sharing the gospel and are willing to learn how best to approach people with His good news.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)