Pastor's Thoughts

Good Stewards

I received a very disturbing e-mail today from our Kentucky Baptist Convention.  The Cooperative Program, which is the financial stabilizing force for every Southern Baptist entity, is behind budget for the fiscal year.  The Cooperative Program is given to by every Southern Baptist Church, and distributes funds to a plethora of groups.  This includes, but is not limited to, The North American Mission Board, International Mission Board, Lifeway Financial Resources, and our 6 Southern Baptist seminaries.

            Next week the Southern Baptist Convention will hold their annual meeting, and money will most likely be the center of their discussions.  Jobs will be and already have been cut.  Missionaries may be sent home.  And there is even discussions of shutting down one of our seminaries.

            And Why?  Is it because of the economy?  I’d like to answer that question with a resounding “NO!”  We’ll be downsizing, cutting jobs, sending home missionaries, and shutting down seminaries because of the unfaithfulness of Christians to be stewards. 

1 Corinthians 16:1-2 – “Now concerning the collection for the saints:  as I directed the churches of Galatia, so you also are to do.  On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper”

            This passage tells me that giving should be regular, personal, proportional and voluntary.  But the truth is, it is not about the money!  We are not purchasing anything with our tithes, nor proving anything to our God.  The issue is the heart!

Luke 12:22-34 is a passage where Jesus addresses worrying.  Jesus says that “the Father knows what we need” in verse 30.  And the passage ends with Jesus saying, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”  We need to understand that our time, our desires, and even our checkbook reflect the priorities of our heart.  I recognize that some people wouldn’t tithe if Christ Himself appeared in the flesh and gave the command.  However, do not fool yourself into believing that you are “the exception” to Luke 12:34. 

            We need to fall in love all over again.  We need to see the overwhelming, undeserving grace of God in our lives.  We need a revival of joy for our Savior.  Then, and only then, can we joyfully obey God.

“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7