tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-308340972024-03-19T04:52:53.525-07:00Christian Giving - Our Offering Is About More Than The Gift, It's About The RelationshipMuch of the dialogue within the Christian community about tithes & offerings focuses on either stewardship or rewards. In this blog, let's expand the dialogue by examining how God is using offertory giving to build our relationship with Him and each other. As I share my thoughts, I welcome your questions, comments and testimonies regarding how God uses our giving to draw us unto Himself.
Disclaimer: THESE ARE MY THOUGHTS. I SPEAK FOR NO ONE OTHER THAN MYSELF!Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.comBlogger175125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-73390876119885847832016-05-12T06:40:00.002-07:002016-05-12T06:40:54.423-07:00I'll Be Back SoonI know it seems like a long time but God is still working. you will hear from me soon. I felt compelled to repost one of my last posts from 2013:<br />
<br />
It's a new year. My "More Than The Gift" website isn't functioning. My iTunes podcasts aren't working. I've been quiet. Yet, while I stand still God is moving and pursuing His purposes. I see glimpses of Him (even in the darkness) and hear His rustling (even in my silence). If He comes at midnight, will I be ready? I need your prayer.<br /><br /> Colossians 4:2-4<br /><br /> Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ , ..... Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. <br />
<br />
<br />Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-20446345674783733562013-04-08T06:51:00.000-07:002013-04-08T06:51:28.620-07:00Thoughts for Church Leaders - 04/08/2013Do you ask your members to give an offering or to offer worship? Worship requires that we become the offering!<br />
<br />
Larry<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-14047792864610316332013-03-05T06:21:00.000-08:002013-03-05T06:21:23.827-08:00Another Snow Storm<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size: 12.0px;">Another Tuesday and another projected snowstorm. Rather than focus on my disappointment, I choose to remind myself that God is in control. I will continue to prepare for the opportunity He will set before me. Thanks for your prayers.<br />
<br />
Larry</span></span>
<!--EndFragment-->
Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-74052552757408392862013-02-26T03:34:00.000-08:002016-05-12T06:42:08.934-07:00Prayer Request - February 26, 2013<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "helvetica" , "arial";"><span style="font-size: 12.0px;">Things went well last Tuesday, so it doesn’t surprise me that a snow storm has been forecast for today. Please continue in prayer not only that I would declare this word but that those for whom it is intended would brave the snow to come hear it. Being good soil requires perseverance. Luke 8: 15 <i>But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.<br />
<br />
Larry</i></span></span>
<!--EndFragment-->
Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-27449759780719632212013-02-18T05:08:00.002-08:002013-02-18T05:08:56.383-08:00Commonwealth Community Church<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size: 12.0px;">Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. On Tuesday I begin teaching a 5-week series on giving at the Commonwealth Community Church in Chicago. This was in the works when I last contacted you. Now that the door is open please continue to pray that I may proclaim God’s message with clarity.<br />
<br />
Larry</span></span>
<!--EndFragment-->
Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-27508552433584337652013-02-01T10:55:00.000-08:002013-02-01T11:03:46.089-08:00Prayer Request - February 1, 2013It's a new year. My "More Than The Gift" website isn't functioning. My iTunes podcasts aren't working. I've been quiet. Yet, while I stand still God is moving and pursuing His purposes. I see glimpses of Him (even in the darkness) and hear His rustling (even in my silence). If He comes at midnight, will I be ready? I need your prayer.<br />
<br />
Colossians 4:2-4<br />
<br />
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ , ..... Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-84729925034814850112012-06-18T05:37:00.002-07:002013-02-01T11:05:20.400-08:00Generosity-Ownership-Stewardship<br />
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
Here's something that just came to me last week and I wanted to share it even though I'm still researching it. The issue of stewardship versus ownership presents an interesting quandary regarding what our generosity reflects. Sometimes a discussion regarding generosity can seems to focus on the benevolence of our heart.</div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
While God's end goal is the transformation of our hearts. The first step in that process may be our simply obedience. If we accept the fact that God is the owner and we are simply stewards of His possession, then our primary job is to be responsive to His directions, preferences and prompting for the use of his possession.</div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
Faithful stewardship requires that we manage His possession in manner that reflects the heart of the owner, even if that does not yet reflect our own heart. The owner is generous. While we are getting there we should still act as faithful stewards. The priority of our giving should be to respond to God's will rather than our own.</div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
However, God desires that over time our heart would reflect His heart. It is far easier to execute one's stewardship when your heart is in it. God gives His possession to us as part of His plan to transform us to become like Him, to make us generous. He enriches us that we may abound in good work. He enriches us to increase the harvest of our righteousness. He enriches us that we would become generous.</div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
2 Cor 9: 8-11</div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px;">
Larry</div>
<div style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 10px/normal Monaco; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-47450363184054378972012-02-18T14:00:00.000-08:002012-02-18T20:11:53.679-08:00Why Did Jesus Ask Him To GiveMatthew 19:16-22; Mark 10: 17-22; Luke 18:18-23<div>In this familiar passage of scripture Jesus encountered a young rich man who asked how to obtain eternal life. Jesus initially gave the expected Jewish response. The man should keep the commandments. The man replied that he had done so. Maybe he knew this was not enough. Maybe that was what prompted his inquiry. We don't know. What we do know is that Jesus declared the insufficiency of the man's efforts and challenged the man to give sacrificially. Jesus' response baffled His disciples and still baffles believers today. Why did Jesus ask the man to give sacrificially? <span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';">We often discuss the impediment that material wealth presents to our pursuit of God, but I believe the passage reveals more.</span></div> <!--EndFragment--><div><ul><li>Mark states that Jesus looked on the man and loved him. Jesus' request seems directly connected to His love for the man. </li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Jesus saw the man's need. The man desired eternal life but was found lacking. Jesus did not request that the man give because of Jesus' need but rather as a result of the man's own need. The man needed to give to obtain the fullness of his goal. Jesus explains in John 17:3 that eternal life is our coming to know the Father (the only true God) and the Son. As we grow in that knowledge we discover that the Father and the Son are sacrificial givers.</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Giving is an integral part of God's redemptive plan for believers. It is a requisite component of discipleship. Notice that Jesus instructs the man to give "and come, follow me." More than simply saving us from the penalty of sin, God want us to grow. He is conforming believers into His image.</li></ul></div><div><ul><li>Jesus wanted to bless the man. Jesus spoke from an eternal perspective. Our actions on earth have eternal consequences. Our giving on earth reserves treasure for us in heaven. Jesus encouraged the man to trade temporary earthly possessions for eternal treasure. Through his giving the man <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">wouldn't</span> lose, he would gain.</li></ul><div>How transforming would it be if we could help people realize that God's plan for our sacrificial giving flows from the fact that He loves us, that He knows what we need, that He is revealing Himself to us and conforming us into His image and that our giving is intended to bless us. </div></div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-79141070222822579382012-01-23T07:03:00.000-08:002012-01-24T04:31:00.809-08:00Prayer Request<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px;">More Than The Gift’s presence on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">internet</span> has been facilitated by my use of Apple products. Over the past 2 years years the web message has reached:<br /></span></span><span style="color:#3C3C3C;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Palatino;"><span style="font-size:14.0px;"><br /> 53 States or U. S. Territories<br /> 93 Countries Outside of the U.S.A.<br /> 6 Continents<br /><br />My prayer is that God uses the information to change perceptions, hearts and behaviors. While I’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ve</span> received over 20,000 hits, I’m aware most viewers pass by too quickly to grasp the distinctiveness of the message. However, on average, every other day someone chooses to spend an hour or more reviewing my sites, considering what God has given to me to share. I thank God for each seed planted but especially for those that take root and grow. I can’t express how humbled I am that God allows me to participate in His plan to draw us closer to Him and closer to each other.<br /></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px;"><br />The immediate hurdle before me is this: midyear Apple will cease support of the primary software I use to create my website and post my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">podcasts</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">iWeb</span>. I don’t fully understand what this will mean other than knowing that my process for communicating my messages is about to change drastically. I know other software tools exist, but the great benefit of the Apple tools were their simplicity. Their ease of use and seamless integration allows me to focus on content rather than technical issues. All of the Apple products were linked so I’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">ve</span> never had to worry about coding/upload/import issues. I’ll spend the next few months planning and praying about the transition. I have no doubt that God will get the glory. I don’t ask that He protect my comfort zone. I simply ask that I remain in His will. Please join me in prayer.<br /><br /></span></span><blockquote><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-family:Georgia, Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size:16.0px;">Your Brother In Christ,<br /></span></span></span></blockquote><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-family:Georgia, Times New Roman;"><span style="font-size:16.0px;"> Larry</span></span></span> <!--EndFragment-->Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-983328632163435142012-01-02T08:26:00.000-08:002013-02-01T11:02:47.652-08:00The Three W's of Acceptable GivingBy now it should be clear that I believe the modern church suffers from a lack of a comprehensive discussion regarding God's purposes and plans for our giving. Yet, from a practical standpoint, I am aware that people also suffer from communication overload. The more we are bombarded with messaging the harder it becomes to discern that which is important from that which is simply media <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">hype</span>. Understanding God's purposes and plans for our giving is important but I understand the crowded context in which that message battles for attention. Today, I offer at bite-sized message for sharing and personal consumption.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some of us wonder what makes offerings acceptable to God. For ease of reference let me suggest that acceptable offerings are <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">characterized</span> by "3 W's": Willingness, Worship and Worth.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Willingness</div>
<div>
God seeks a voluntary yielding of our gifts. 2 Corinthians 8:12 states that our offerings can be accepted if there is first a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">willing</span> mind. Whether the willingness is our inward desire to give or simply our desire to obey God's call for us to give, each represents a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">willingness</span>. Each honors God and is honored by Him. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Worship</div>
<div>
Sacrificial giving was intended as a part of our worship, not as a separate act. Matthew 2:10&11 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">illustrates</span> it best. The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Wise Men</span> came to worship Jesus and as a part of doing so they opened their treasures to the Lord. The altar was intended as both a place of worship and sacrifice. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Worth</div>
<div>
For our gifts to matter to God they must first matter to us. In 1 Chronicles 21:24 King David declares " I will not ... sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing." The Old Testament traditions of temple sacrifice required that the animal offered be an animal that the giver owned rather than a wild animal. The term sacrifice symbolized that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">offerer</span> gave up something, "sacrificed" something of worth to them. </div>
Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-78230582499112751492011-12-23T07:15:00.000-08:002011-12-23T08:28:40.566-08:00The Gift of WorshipThe Christmas season offers a great context to consider our offertory giving. On Christmas Day we celebrate God's gift to mankind. However, in addition to the gift of His son, God granted another gift. He extended the opportunity for us to recognize who Jesus is and respond to Him. In the biblical record we see this gift received by the shepherds, by Simeon and the Magi. Each responded in their our way; the shepherds responded with witness, Simeon with praise and the Magi with worship.<div><div><br /></div><div>The response of the Magi seems particularly instructive in respect to our giving. The Magi's acknowledgement of who Jesus is led them to extend themselves in worship. They extended themselves beyond the point of personal convenience. Their worship extended beyond simply verbal expression. They extended their physical selves and their physical possessions. They saw a connection between their worship and their giving. Their giving was an extension of their worship, not a separate activity. Their giving flowed from their worship.</div><div><br /></div><div>This year, let Christmas remind each of us of that wonderful connection. Let us extend our offertory giving beyond the content of the gift. Give more than the gift. Give worship!</div></div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-33924176786062150902011-11-14T06:44:00.000-08:002011-11-14T06:45:47.813-08:00Internet Reach Update<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Palatino; color: #3c3c3c"><span style="font: 14.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px color: #f9931a"><b>Internet Reach</b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px color: #574d4d"> </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">- As of </span><span style="font: 14.0px Arial; letter-spacing: 0.0px color: #f9881a"><b>11/14/11</b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">, our internet message has been received in:</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Palatino; color: #3c3c3c"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"> 52 States or U. S. Territories </span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Palatino; color: #3c3c3c"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"> 93 Countries Outside of the U.S.A.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Palatino; color: #3c3c3c"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"> 6 Continents</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Palatino; color: #3c3c3c; min-height: 19.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Palatino; color: #3c3c3c"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Praise God!</span></p><div><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><br /></span></div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-92043763157657915882011-11-06T14:27:00.000-08:002011-11-06T14:30:53.534-08:00Ministry Next Steps<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px">It is not news to any of you that we are experiencing very tough economic times. It probably <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">doesn</span>’t surprise you that in response, some churches and some church members are pulling back from God’s call under the banner of good stewardship. Surveys have documented that Christian giving is down in 2011 and churches are hurting. While the symptom is financial, the problem is much deeper. Somehow, we are convincing ourselves that it is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ok</span> to balance our personal accounts by giving less to God. Churches are cutting budgets, reducing ministry efforts and reducing salaries to balance the books. Yes, Jesus calls His church to execute good stewardship, but we cross the line from stewardship to disobedience when we failed to answer His call on our lives or failed to execute the ministry to which He has called us. There is no blessing (for our churches or their congregants) in members seeking to balance their personal budgets by under-funding church support. Such an equation never balances. I'm reminded of the account in Haggai when the remnant returning from exile chose to give priority to their personal financial affairs rather than restoring the temple.<br /><br /><b>Haggai 1: 4-6<br /><i><br />Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now, therefore thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvest little. You eat , but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes. Thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider your ways.<br /></i></b><br /><br />This warning seems so appropriate. Even those who have retained their jobs in this economy are feeling strained, frustrated and dissatisfied. Many have seen their home values and savings diminish over night; as if they were putting money in bags with holes. I think we are at a critical juncture. In times of hardship, the church needs to do more not less. Local churches will be tempted to strengthen their funding raising efforts to address their short falls. However, the real need is to raise disciples rather than raise funds. While, the subject of my message is offertory giving, I’<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ve</span> never considered fundraising it’s purpose. It is not. It is a tool of discipleship, a message of relationship. It is our relationship that is under attack, not simply our budgets. Our giving is a mirror of the relationship. It let’s us see on whom we depend. It let’s us see whom we love. It let’s us see whom we serve. Jesus’ words still ring true; we cannot serve both God and money.<br /><br />I have been developing a teaching outline for a bible study on my material. It summarizes the key components of the message that I believe God has given me and includes sample scriptural support for each component. It represents the most current synthesis of that message. It is a 6-7 week study (1 – 11/2 hr sessions). It expands on what I taught at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Wheaton</span> Bible Church and Second Baptist Church of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Wheaton</span> over the summer. I believe God is calling me to more aggressively pursue opportunities to teach this series. I ask that each of you prayerfully consider whether you can assist in securing opportunities for me to get the message out. If you feel moved to help, contact me. The need is great.<br /><br />Yours In Christ!<br />Larry<br /><br /><br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment-->Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-39760112847199154342011-08-01T04:52:00.000-07:002011-08-01T04:58:14.343-07:00Internet Bible Study - August 2011 - A Question of Motive<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 32px; ">Giving offertory gifts that are valuable is not enough. God wants more. <i>Why</i><span style="font-style:normal"> we give is as important as </span><i>what </i><span style="font-style:normal">we give. This discussion reviews Jesus’ teachings about improper motives for giving. The examination explores the roles of both the individual giver and the local church in protecting the purity of our motives for giving.</span></span></div><div> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%">Reference Scripture:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Matthew 6: 1 – 4 (acts of righteousness before men)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Supporting Scriptures:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>2 Corinthians 9:7 (give what he has decided in his heart)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Genesis 3:1 – 6<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>(Eve wanted to be like God)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Isaiah 14: 12 – 14 (Lucifer desired to be like God)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>1 John 2: 15 – 16 (pride of life)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Proverbs 16:18 (pride before destruction, haughty spirit before a fall)</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; "></span></p><p class="MsoNormal">Click on the link to the Internet Bible Study (located in the right margin of this blog) to review the full text of the lesson.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Don't study alone. This is the worldwide web. Invite a family member, friend, someone from another state or another country to join you.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Ask questions! Make comments! Let's create a worldwide conversation.</p><div><br /></div><p></p> <!--EndFragment--></div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-62823640913714073592011-07-21T05:56:00.000-07:002011-07-21T06:22:13.542-07:00Praise ReportI apologize for my absence. Over the summer, God granted me opportunities to teach the More Than The Gift message at both my current church (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wheaton</span> Bible Church) and my former church (Second Baptist Church of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Wheaton</span>). Each opportunity was a multi-week series. I've been busy formatting the material into modules suitable for bible classes. I believe that God uniquely blessed each session . I want to thank Elder Mel <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Preiss</span> for inviting me to teach the Covenant Class at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">WBC</span>. They have posted portions of the lessons on the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Internet</span>. I also want to thank Pastor Kevin Williams for inviting me to share again at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">SBC</span>. The More Than The Gift Ministry was birth at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">SBC</span> and this message is uniquely <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">theirs</span>. Please pray with me that the seeds planted will bear fruit.<div><br /></div><div>I believe that these types of opportunities will increase in the future and that God is preparing me for the next phase of this ministry effort.</div><div><br /></div><div>Your Brother In Christ</div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-74114668851756623732011-07-04T06:48:00.000-07:002011-07-04T06:52:10.632-07:00MTTG Bible Class<div>Pastor Kevin Williams recently invited to teach a Bible Class series on the More Than The Gift principles at my former church (Second Baptist Church of Wheaton). It’s a 4-week series (6/29. 7/6, 7/13 & 7/20) on Wednesday nights (7-8:15pm). This is where God gave me the individual scriptural messages, but I never completed my effort to help them connect- the- dots between the messages. It has been over 10 years since this process began. I thank God for His faithfulness to His message for this congregation. Please join me with your prayers, presence or both.</div><div><br /></div><div>Second Baptist Church of Wheaton</div><div>1520 Avery Ave,</div><div>Wheaton , IL. 60187</div><div><br /></div><div>Your Brother In Christ,</div><div>Larry</div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-17488503304306769702011-05-17T04:24:00.000-07:002011-05-17T04:43:29.165-07:00Wheaton Bible ChurchI am humbled that the director of finance at my new home church (Wheaton Bible Church) felt led to write an article featuring excerpts from More Than The Gift. The article will appear in the Summer edition of the church magazine. In addition, in June I will teach a 3-week series from "More Than The Gift" to one of the adult community classes.<div><br /></div><div><div>Please join me in prayer that God prepare the message, the messenger and the soil of the hearts of His people so that the seeds planted will bear fruit that blesses His kingdom and bring Him glory. </div><div><br /></div><div><div>His message continues to advance bit by bit. Matt.13:33 The kingdom of God is like yeast....</div></div></div><div><br /></div>Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-50923081622954565672011-05-16T06:03:00.000-07:002011-05-16T06:21:33.166-07:00Praise Report - Book SigningThank you for your prayers. God's presence was evident during the book signing. Hearts were stirred, books were sold and God was glorified. The agent for the other author even asked if I would join them at their future events. I believe we are entering a new season for the ministry. I expect new doors to open, but please pray that I exhibit spiritual discernment to distinguish between the call of God and the call of man. This is about Him not me.Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-9829166901480798802011-05-04T04:28:00.000-07:002011-05-04T04:31:51.135-07:00Internet Bible Study - May 2011 - Giving That Gets God's Attention<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%">The Biblical account of a widow’s offertory gift of two mites is examined from the perspective of its proportional magnitude. Readers survey several Biblical accounts where individuals were willing to render their all. The decision to surrender all to the Lord always gets His attention and such giving is memorialized in scriptures.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%">Reference Scripture:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Mark 12:41 – 44 (widow’s mite)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Supporting Scriptures:</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Genesis 22:11 – 18 (Abraham… you have not withheld from me your son)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Romans 8:31 – 32 (He who did not spare His own son)</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><span style="mso-tab-count:1"> </span>Philippians 2: 3 – 8 (He humbled himself and became obedient to death)</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"></p><p class="MsoNormal">Click on the link to the Internet Bible Study (located in he right margin of this blog) to review the full text of the lesson.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Don't study alone. This is the worldwide web. Invite a family member, friend, someone from another state or another country to join you.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Ask questions! Make comments! Let's create a worldwide conversation.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:200%"><br /></p><p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-47530756811540705922011-05-02T19:48:00.001-07:002011-05-02T19:59:34.282-07:00Book Signing - May 12, 2011<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvHemYsXBc5afhR-Fc1TfWFnmj-F1bBdlw2kEKlB33C6YyvtYhwQg5UzyZNguTma90k94Kq5XK4gQJYWI3i-CqXKAZobaY5NqM3c8TNd0txt0vStTZafNypzEd_ap08AD1MPRqA/s1600/BookSigning+Flyerfinalweb.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLvHemYsXBc5afhR-Fc1TfWFnmj-F1bBdlw2kEKlB33C6YyvtYhwQg5UzyZNguTma90k94Kq5XK4gQJYWI3i-CqXKAZobaY5NqM3c8TNd0txt0vStTZafNypzEd_ap08AD1MPRqA/s320/BookSigning+Flyerfinalweb.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602316532431101346" /></a>Inner-City Underwriting Agency is hosting a joint book signing at its office on May 12, 2011. The event will feature the Christian writings of two of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">firm's</span> constituents (Dr. Jennifer Moore and myself). I want to thank the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">firm's</span> president, Matthew Cooper, for his hospitality and faith in the message God is sharing through us. Please pray for God's presence and blessing during the event.Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-28531425897204170802011-05-02T05:49:00.000-07:002011-05-02T06:29:09.274-07:00Monday's Meditation - May 2, 2011 - Our Preparation For Our InheritenceA new podcast has been published to the More Than The Gift website and iTunes Store:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; "><br />Our Preparation For Our Inheritance</span><br /><br />When our twin sons were infants, my wife and I researched investment options to save funds for their future. One very interesting option was a gift trust managed by a prominent investment firm. This investment had a remarkable track of performance. It had increased in value by more than 20% for each of the preceding 10 years. However, there was one characteristic of the trust that concerned us. It was an irrevocable trust, which required that any contributions we made become the permanent property of the trust for the benefit of our sons. We could put money in but we couldn’t decide later to take it out. At the predetermined time the trust would be available for our sons to use as they wished. We could not decide to withhold the funds if they made poor choices. That was a very scary thought because in spite of our love for our sons, we knew it was impossible to predict whether our infant sons would become wise stewards as adults. We had no desire to pre-fund unwise choices they might choose to make later. Prudence suggested that we invest the funds in a manner where we would retain control over their distribution. So, we chose not to commit substantial treasure to our sons’ ownership prior to their developing and demonstrating the judgment to handle it. However, we simultaneously committed to using a weekly allowance to help them acquire and demonstrate that judgment. While their allowance was small, it seemed big to them. It gave them the opportunity to acquire basic skills for handling wealth by practicing with a small amount. Handling their allowance was a foundational step in preparation for incremental increases in responsibility and eventually receipt of their inheritance. When I think about it, it becomes clear that God gives each of us opportunities for earthly stewardship to prepare us in very much the same way.<br /><br />This podcast is a continuation the series of podcasts regarding the theme : "What Our Giving Accomplishes".<br /><br />As always, I invite you to receive Monday’s Meditation as “food for thought “ for the week, then let it become “fuel for action” for the weekend and beyond.<br /><br /><strong>The is audio podcast is available on my website: morethanthegift.net and the iTunes Store. Links are provided in the "Additional Resources" section of this blog.<br /><br />After listening to the podcast in the iTunes Store, I encourage you to offer a review and to send an invitation to a friend or loved one to listen also.<br /><br /><br />Use this blog for your comments, questions and testimonies regarding the episode. </strong><br /><br /><br /><br />Keep praying with me!Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-22657272884647680812011-04-22T17:54:00.000-07:002011-04-25T05:01:51.357-07:00Monday's Meditation - April 25, 2011 - Positioned For Greater Blessing - RepostA new podcast has been published to the More Than The Gift website and iTunes Store:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; "><br />Positioned For Greater Blessing</span><br /><br /><br />The Holy Scripture is full of rich and wonderful promises for the believer. They are exciting to uncover and humbling to ponder. Each promise reveals the matchless nature of God’s love for us and the benefits He wants us to experience through our relationship with Him. Some promises are simply our birthright, as we become daughters and sons of God through faith in Jesus Christ. Others promises are rewards or blessings that flow from our actions. In this spirit, God has ordained that abundant blessings flow from our giving. As a result, our giving actually positions us for greater blessings than we would otherwise experience. I am reminded of the Old Testament account of the widow from Zarephath. When Elijah met the widow, by her own admission, she and her family were positioned to die. Their circumstances had brought them to the point of starvation. Then God sent Elijah with a word of hope, but this word of promise was preceded by a request that the widow give from the very last of her provision. As she gave, she and her family were repositioned. Rather than being recipients of death, they became recipients of an increase in their food supply, an increase in health and an increase in faith. Greater blessings flowed from her giving than she ever imagined.<br /><br /><br />This podcast is a continuation the series of podcasts regarding the theme : "What Our Giving Accomplishes".<br /><br />As always, I invite you to receive Monday’s Meditation as “food for thought “ for the week, then let it become “fuel for action” for the weekend and beyond.<br /><br /><strong>The full audio podcast is available on my website: morethanthegift.net and the iTunes Store. Links are provided in the "Additional Resources" section of this blog.<br /><br />After listening to the podcast in the iTunes Store, I encourage you to offer a review and to send an invitation to a friend or loved one to listen also.<br /><br /><br />Use this blog for your comments, questions and testimonies regarding the episode. </strong><br /><br /><br /><br />Keep praying with me!Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-28952020508114046402011-04-16T15:45:00.000-07:002011-04-20T17:30:01.383-07:00Monday's Meditation - April 18, 2011 - Our Fellowship In MinistryEvery now and then, I am reminded that our human experiences often convey spiritual messages. Not so long ago, as I was carrying a large box through our home, my youngest son stopped me and asked “Daddy can I help?” A part of me wanted to politely reject his offer. The item was awkward and heavy and his attempt at assistance would actually slow down the progress I could achieve alone. However, when I looked down into his eyes I realized the true significance of the moment. The task at hand immediately lost its importance and I turned my focus to my son. I told him to grab a corner of the box. I repositioned my grip to make certain that there was no more weight on his corner than he could bear. As he placed his tiny hands on the box, his eyes began to glisten. Together we completed the chore but now with a greater sense of fulfillment and joy.<br /><br />On the human level, God allowed me to see that there is a bond that grows out of our co-laboring together. My son’s partnering with me in my activity gave us an opportunity to fellowship together. Our working together actually nurtured our growing together. On the spiritual level, God allowed me to see that my activity with the Lord has the same effect. It’s not that God needs my help to carry the load or get the job done faster but when God allows me to participate with Him, God is offering me an opportunity for fellowship. After I received this spiritual message, God then led me to consider the profound implications this revelation has for my giving. My giving is never meant to be a burden. God does all of the heavy lifting. He is just inviting me to come along side His activity. When I extend my hands to help and I think about what God is really doing, like my son, my eyes begin to glisten with joy at the opportunity for fellowship through co-laboring with my Father.<br /><br /><br />This podcast is a continuation the series of podcasts regarding the theme : "What Our Giving Accomplishes".<br /><br />As always, I invite you to receive Monday’s Meditation as “food for thought “ for the week, then let it become “fuel for action” for the weekend and beyond.<br /><br /><strong>The full audio podcast is available on my website: morethanthegift.net and the iTunes Store. Links are provided in the "Additional Resources" section of this blog.<br /><br />After listening to the podcast in the iTunes Store, I encourage you to offer a review and to send an invitation to a friend or loved one to listen also.<br /><br />Use this blog for your comments, questions and testimonies regarding the episode. </strong><br /><br /><br /><br />Keep praying with me!Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-85410469471071828202011-04-10T20:45:00.000-07:002011-04-11T07:05:21.655-07:00Monday's Meditation - April 11, 2011 - God's Provision For MinistryWhile serving as the budget chairperson for my local church, I observed that many Christians struggle with the quantity of church funds that are expended for the compensation of church workers and benevolence ministries. The care extended to the church staff members and the less fortunate can be viewed as poor stewardship by some believers.<br /><br />Yet the familiar scripture , Malachi 3:10, still reads: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house….”<br /><br />I wonder how often we consider the practical intent of that statement. The food <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">wasn</span>’t for ministry programs. It was for people. It was for the workers of ministry and the less fortunate. This approach was designed by God and reflects His intent for the support of ministry both then and now.<br /><br />This is the first in the series of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">podcasts</span> regarding the theme : "What Our Giving Accomplishes".<br /><br />As always, I invite you to receive Monday’s Meditation as “food for thought “ for the week, then let it become “fuel for action” for the weekend and beyond.<br /><br /><strong>The full audio podcast is available on my website: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">morethanthegift</span>.net and the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">iTunes</span> Store. Links are provided in the "Additional Resources" section of this blog.<br /><br />After listening to the podcast in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">iTunes</span> Store, I encourage you to offer a review and to send an invitation to a friend or loved one to listen also.<br /><br /><br />Use this blog for your comments, questions and testimonies regarding the episode. </strong><br /><br /><br />Keep praying with me!Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30834097.post-79504244642856813582011-04-04T06:21:00.000-07:002011-04-04T06:44:05.215-07:00Monday's Meditation - April 4, 2011 - The Giver's Treasure & Heart RepostGod desires to give us eternal life. However, eternal life is not measured by the length of our existence. It is measured by the depth of our relationship with the Father and the Son (John 17:3). God offers us the opportunity to give that we might experience life in Him more abundantly. He knows that we cannot serve two masters. We cannot serve both God and money. When material accumulation takes an unhealthy position in our value systems, He often allows us to be confronted with that critical question of choice: “Your Money or Your Life?” Sadly, when faced with that choice, many believers respond “I’m thinking”.<br /><br />Today’s episode is the final episode in the series affirming the importance of what our giving reveals. Our next podcast will begin the series affirming the importance of what our giving accomplishes.<br /><br />As always, I invite you to receive Monday’s Meditation as “food for thought “ for the week, then let it become “fuel for action” for the weekend and beyond.<br /><br /><strong>The full audio podcast is available on my website: morethanthegift.net and the iTunes Store. Links are provided in the "Additional Resources" section of this blog.<br /><br />After listening to the podcast in the iTunes Store, I encourage you to offer a review and to send an invitation to a friend or loved one to listen also.<br /><br /><br />Use this blog for your comments, questions and testimonies regarding the episode. </strong><br /><br /><br />Keep praying with me!Larryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11049806720551324853noreply@blogger.com0