Hearts of Generosity

In I Chronicles 28-29, we read how King David gathered the nation of Israel together to cast vision for and ask their help with, constructing a temple for the Lord. In this magnificent story, David not only asked for financial assistance from the people, but he sacrificially unleashed his own storehouse of wealth, so that the work could begin.  David then urged his leaders to also give generously to the "building fund".....and they did!  The remarkable thing about David and his leaders is that they gave willingly and rejoiced at the privilege of giving back to God.

In verse 10 of I Chronicles 29, David shares in their rejoicing as he prays this magnificent prayer of praise and adoration to the Lord.  God had blessed David richly, so he blesses God thankfully!  His words are a short course in theology.  He acknowledges God's greatness, power, glory, and majesty.  After all, God owns everything, everything comes from Him and when we give, we only return to the Lord that which He has graciously given to us.

David goes on in this prayer to assure the Lord that the offerings came from his heart and the hearts of his people, and that they gave joyfully and with sincerity.  David prays that his people might always have hearts of generosity, gratitude, and joy.

This prayer of David is one that I am praying for FBC.  During my short-time here, I have witnessed incredible generosity from our church family.  From the Annie Armstrong offering, to crates full of school supplies, to our own church budget.  In all of this, you have shown to be faithful stewards of what God has given to you.

As your pastor, I want to take this opportunity to say, "Thank You", for your faithfulness in giving towards our church finances and would ask that you commit yourselves to remaining faithful as we close out this fiscal year.

In Philippians 4:19, we read, "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."  To date, God has supplied for all of our church needs. 

Below are two figures, one represents what we have received to date and the other figure represents our expenses to date.  As you will notice, we are continuing to operate in the black.

FBC Receipts (offerings/designated donations/other income)   $403,705
FBC Expenses (including loan payment)   $398,981
Surplus   $4,724

Celebrate with me as we continue to trust in God to meet church's financial needs.

See you Sunday.

Pastor Doug