This is the first installment of our challnge to grow in our faith and to become more like Jesus. We are using the phrase GROW which represents 4 critical areas that Christians need to grow and be transformed in their lives: Giving, Relationships, Obedience, Words. When God begins changing us in these areas it transforms us!

Today I am sharing with you a great summary I found on the topic of Giving (From Christian Art Publishers)

"Giving appears on the surface to be sharing possessions, wealth, income and the like. More importantly, giving is a sharing of yourself. Giving is a most remarkable concept, originating in the heart of a giving God, a God who pours forth more blessings on His people than we can ever deserve or expect. The gift of life, the gift of love, the gift of salvation, the gift of eternity in heaven - all of these things are priceless.

The possessions we have are generally a tangible result of what we have inviested in time and energy and talent. But who we are - our character - is always a result of what we have invested of ourselves with God and others. And one of the great and unique promises of God is that the more we give the more we receive - not necessarily in material possessions, but in spiritual and eternal rewards."

God designed us to be people who give. Not to do random acts once in a while - but that our heart is to give to God and to others. It is not just what we give but how and with what motive. Johaan Lavater wrote: "The manner of giving shows the character of the giver more than the gift itself." Let us be people who give out of a deep love for God. I pray that our hearts will grow to be more like Christ who said "Even I, the Son of Man, came not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many."

Lord change us - remove our selfishness and our pride and make us generous givers who give our lives for you and for others.

WIth You In Christ
Matt