And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:19, ESV I have been a pastor for more than 20 years and worked in churches even longer. And something that has been consistent over all those years is the cry that there is not enough. Not enough money to pay the bills.Not enough people to serve.Not enough leaders … [Read more...] about Give Up the Spirit of Poverty
Devotions
Give Up Entitlement
Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us. For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we … [Read more...] about Give Up Entitlement
Give Up Hatred
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:43–44, ESV Giving up hatred is one of the 40 Things that seems easy on the surface. Not many of us would admit to hatred or readily see its evidence in our lives. Hatred is a strong word. It is often … [Read more...] about Give Up Hatred
Give Up Apathy
(Jesus asked:)“Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He (the lawyer) said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.” Luke 10:36–37, ESV The world is smaller and ever more connected. We are well aware - up to the minute - of what is happening with the war in Ukraine. When … [Read more...] about Give Up Apathy
Give Up Impurity
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8 (ESV) What is the biggest problem in the church? There is no doubt there is a list of challenges that are faced. But what is … [Read more...] about Give Up Impurity