The Messenger
A person who follows Jesus discovers the joy of giving.
Magnolia Baptist Church
"Every person a place to serve and a place to belong." May 2012
In giving, a Jesus-follower: 1) honors God by giving to the local church; 2) honors God by giving in the community outside the church; and 3) honors God through lifestyle choices—living a simple, modest lifestyle—to share with and bless others in need. The greatest work we might do in Christ and for Christ is compassionately giving through mo�vated love. “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” Dave Ramsey, author Total Money Makeover Giving My Money Giving liberates the soul of the giver. You never walk away feeling badly. Whether through a �the, charitable contribu�on, or gi� to a friend in need, give to something for the glory of God. Not only does giving generate good feelings, but it generates contentment. Remember, no one has ever become poor by giving. Giving is one of the most important and rewarding parts of following Jesus. Other Ways to Give There are plenty of opportuni�es to volunteer at a soup kitchen or charity. You can help that single mom down the street by offering to babysit her children while she goes to night school or takes an evening to herself. You can also cook dinner for someone in your church who has lost a loved one. A person is so encouraged when he or she sees someone else being kind to them. As you learn new ways to give, you will find that money is just another way to give. The real giving comes from you. Pile up money and give away money, but don’t forget from where the real spirit of giving comes. You Will Be Fulfilled The more you give, the more you are fulfilled and the more you want to give. It’s a great cycle to be on. Giving is not a ma�er of moving money from your wallet to a charity or collec�on plate; it is a ma�er of realizing that there are others less fortunate than you and you have a genuine desire to help them. By helping someone, you give them encouragement, hope and relief. The more people you help, the more joy you will experience. That’s really what Jesus wants us to be about with all of our resources…�me, talent and money! Each person you give to produces a new story and a new thrill. It is a feeling that never grows dull. What Does the Bible Say about Giving? “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 “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” Proverbs 3:27 “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35
720 S. Magnolia Anaheim, CA 92804
The Bible has much more to say about giving, but this is a start! What about you? How has giving faithfully brought you joy in Jesus? Share your stories at www.facebook.com/magnoliabap�st. Glad to be your pastor, Jeremy