Community Groups Series 4 and 5

I just realized that I didn't blog after session 4; so, I'll just combine that entry with the one for the latest session on 5.

In session 4, we were challenged with the idea that there are some parts of the "American Dream" that may not be so consistent with our values.  While the "equality of opportunity that permits any American to aspire to high attainment and material success" is great,  focusing only on "personal happiness and material comfort" can conflict with the eternal perspective.  Three principles we should remember are:

1. It's not our money; it's God's
2. We are entrusted with it; not entitled to it
3. God expects us to invest in His kingdom

We are to be wise stewards of the Time, Treasures, and Talents He has entrusted to us.

In session 5, we are challenged with the statistics that show that there is a hole in the Church.  Only 2 percent of the 2 percent given in tithe go to missions; but, while we have awareness, access, and ability, we often find excuses or lack the will to help.   Malachi 3:8-12 gives a different perspective on the tithe - that by not giving, we actually "rob God".  When the people of Israel turned away from God, they withheld the tithe, which had the purpose of supporting the priests and spiritual leaders; and providing for the needy. Thus, without the tithe, the Levites had to work, and thus abandon their religious duties, and the needs of the poor went unmet as well. 

What a difference we could make for the kingdom of God, if we all brought "the whole tithe into the storehouse".