POPULARITY
Categories
In this episode of Pray the Word on Exodus 36:3–7, David Platt asks God to bless us with a spirit of abundant generosity.Explore more content from Radical.
A new MP3 sermon from Truth For Life - Alistair Begg is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: March 2, 2026: Entreating the Extravagant Generosity of God Subtitle: Messages from Truth For Life Speaker: Alistair Begg Broadcaster: Truth For Life - Alistair Begg Event: Radio Broadcast Date: 3/2/2026 Length: 40 min.
An auditorium full of medical students at Albert Einstein College of Medicine listened intently as ninety-year-old Ruth Gottesman spoke. As she concluded, Ruth announced—to the students’ gasps, cheers, and pandemonium—that she was donating $1 billion so that they could finish their education tuition free. This is the largest donation ever given to a medical school. Yet in the interviews that followed, you would have thought that Gottesman was the one receiving the gift. She expressed joy, delight, and honor to be able to give her money away. Proverbs tells us that this is how generosity works. The one who “gives freely,” far from being left diminished or bereft, finds blessings they hadn’t anticipated (11:24). When we freely open our hands to others, we’re somehow left with something more—not less. “Whoever refreshes,” Scripture says, “will be refreshed” (v. 25). We’re tempted to tightly grip whatever we have, fearful that we’ll be taken advantage of or left with nothing. God’s economy works differently, however. Jesus went a step further, stating that it’s “more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). We can be generous with our lives and our resources, offering what we have to others in need. And then, in return we’ll find that we end up receiving too. There’s plenty for everyone in God’s kingdom.
What is almsgiving — and why does the Church teach that it is more about justice and right relationship than simply personal charity or philanthropy? As “Preach” continues its Lent 2026 series on the three classical pillars of the season—prayer, fasting and almsgiving—we turn to almsgiving, perhaps the most confronting of the three. In this conversation, Ricardo da Silva, S.J. is joined by Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA., and author of Imagining Abundance: Fundraising, Philanthropy, and a Spiritual Call to Service, a book that reflects on generosity as a spiritual practice rooted in faith. Timecodes: 0:00 Generosity is at the heart of almsgiving 2:30 Our cognitive dissonance with money and faith 5:43 How Kerry became a steward of her family's 80-year-old foundation 8:20 About Catholic Charities U.S.A. 11:50 Biblical teachings on giving alms 16:36 Mother Teresa: “never take away the right of another to be generous” 21:30 We need both charity and justice 26:24 New insights from Pope Leo and ‘Dilexi Te' 28:08 Preach almsgiving with thanksgiving --- Support this podcast by becoming a subscriber. Visit americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
One of the evidences of our having been adopted into God's family is that we pray. But what are we to actually pray about, and how? In Ephesians 3, Paul reveals his prayers for the Ephesian believers, providing a pattern for prayer that both encourages and challenges believers in all times. In this message, Alistair Begg examines Paul's entreaty, the generosity upon which it's based, and the glorious end toward which the apostle prays: that God will get all the glory He deserves. Bible passages: Ephesians 3:14-21
Jeff Latture serves as Executive Vice President at Barnhart Crane and Rigging and as chairman of Strategic Resource Group, but his journey into collaborative generosity began long before boardrooms and grant strategies. Growing up in Arkansas, he watched his parents come to genuine faith, yet it was later in Dallas through a vibrant church community and a pivotal sermon from Bill Bright, that his faith became personal. A simple conversation with his future wife about missions planted an early vision: if they could not go, perhaps they could send. God reshaped that vision when He closed the door to starting their own business and instead led Jeff to Barnhart, a company committed to investing its profits in the Great Commission. Over three decades, Jeff has helped cultivate GROVE, Barnhart's internal collaborative giving team, and advance a mutual fund model of ministry through the Strategic Resource Group. He has learned that wise generosity requires shared mission, deep relationships, patient trust, and a willingness to surrender control. Collaborative structures, clear strategy, and long-term partnerships have multiplied Kingdom impact across frontier regions. This conversation offers a thoughtful vision for pursuing obedience, discernment, and deeper partnership in your own stewardship journey. Major Topics Include: Give collaboratively, not independently Build trust through long-term relationships Shifting from transactions to partnerships Organize giving around focused teams Leveraging business wisdom for Kingdom impact Investing in ministry capacity and health How to balance metrics with Spirit-led discernment Surrendering control in stewardship QUOTES TO REMEMBER “What I really wanted in starting a business was to be in control. And God wasn't going to let me have that.” “He said, I'll let you serve the ones in control, but I'm not going to let you be the ultimate steward.” “We would never have thought ever that we would have the viewpoint that we have for what God's doing around the world. But it just started one relationship and one gift at a time.” “Giving together is way better than trying to do it on your own.” “You just learn faster in a group than you can by yourself.” “It's our secret sauce is doing things together and getting the thinking of many people pointing the same direction.” “A good collaborative will cost you something. You have to give up some rights for a collaborative to work.” “Knowing the heart of the leader is the most important thing.” “It's very relational. We like to measure things. We're a bunch of engineers. But it's really the relationships that drive us.” “If we'll go to God first and really lean in to listening to what Scripture says and what the Holy Spirit is saying before we make those funding decisions, somehow it comes out with a better result.” “My personal experience over 30 years, He will do far more than you can ever imagine with the things that He's given you.” LINKS FROM THE SHOW Alan Barnhart (see our past interview here) When Helping Hurts (see our interview with coauthor Brian Fikkert) Mission Increase Strategic Resource Group The India Alliance IllumiNations Bible Translation Alliance (see our interview with Todd Peterson or John Chesnut) MacLellan Foundation (see our interview with Director of Generosity, John Cortines) Mergon Doug Cobb, Founder of The Finishing Fund (see our past interview here) Achieve Alliance BIBLE REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW Matthew 28:19–20 | The Great Commission “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Esther 4:14 | For Such a Time as This “For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” TAKE A STEP DEEPER On the Finish Line podcast, we are all about stories, seeing how God draws us into generosity over a lifetime. But sometimes these stories can leave us thinking, “What's that next step look like for me?” That's exactly why we've launched a whole new podcast called Applied Generosity which explores the full landscape of the generous life across 7 different dimensions of generosity. Applied Generosity helps make sense of the hundreds of stories we've shared on the Finish Line Podcast to help you find that best next step. If you've been inspired by these stories and want to take things to the next level, check out Applied Generosity anywhere you listen to podcasts or at appliedgenerosity.com.
Pastor Omar Lopez | This Is Why 3.1.26
In Buddhism, we are guided by the ideal of a Buddha, or awakened being. One of the characteristics of a Buddha is unconditional and selfless generosity, and when your generosity is blocked, you can be sure that some part of you still needs understanding, healing or liberation. On the other hand, when you're able to set aside your self-doubt and imagine yourself as a Buddha, when you look on other beings as if they were your children, you may find your generosity flows more naturally.
When you realize that everything you have belongs to God, it changes the way you live, give, and trust Him. In Pastor Phil Hopper's message, “Exchange Self for Sacrifice” from 1 Chronicles 29, we look at how King David led God's people to give willingly and joyfully because they understood the temple was for the Lord, not for man. Just like Israel was called to build a house for God's presence, the New Testament reminds us that we are now the temple of the Holy Spirit, called to be a light to our neighbors and the nations. You'll discover why God is the owner of all your abilities, opportunities, and resources, and how seeing yourself as a steward—not an owner—frees you to live generously. Because when you let Jesus change your heart, you always get to “keep the change.” Connect with us on Social Media↴ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifels Connect with Pastor Phil↴ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kc Books & Resources: https://abundant-life.com/resources/books/ Listen to The Well Podcast⤵ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wadnywAMEK7c0E1qatMoY?si=SjH6Ko7VR3OoHrRy1yYLlQ&nd=1&dlsi=395ae55d95ac4b11 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-well/id1233267223 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR50sV854C2hogfBmv7YogvCjiNYLz9a2 Find Your Next Step:https://alife.livingproof.co/ Watch More Sermons:https://abundant-life.com/sermons/ Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/ Listen to The Well Podcast ⤵Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5wadnywAMEK7c0E1qatMoY?si=SjH6Ko7VR3OoHrRy1yYLlQ&nd=1&dlsi=395ae55d95ac4b11Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-well/id1233267223YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLR50sV854C2hogfBmv7YogvCjiNYLz9a2Find Your Next Step: http://alife.livingproof.co/ Watch more sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/ Connect with us on Social Media ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlifels/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlifels Connect with Pastor Phil ↴Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHopperKCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/philhopper_kc/Web: https://abundant-life.com/resources/books/Learn more about the A-Life Discipleship Journey: https://alife.livingproof.co/ More information on our sermons: https://abundant-life.com/sermons/Do you want to see your life changed by Jesus? Visit our website: https://abundant-life.com/
Christians who give generously make a far greater impact than they realize—God uses their giving to strengthen their churches and advance the reputation of gospel near and far.
Speaker: Pastor Bryan Loritts
This podcast episode centers on biblical discipleship expressed through intentional community, emphasizing that following Jesus goes beyond knowledge to lived obedience practiced with one another. Drawing from the Great Commission (Matthew 28) and the early church in Acts 2, the speaker highlights shared devotion to teaching, fellowship, meals, prayer, generosity, and mutual care as the core markers of a healthy Christian community. The episode challenges isolation and consumer-style church participation, calling listeners to open their lives to others, meet real needs through proximity and vulnerability, and actively practice the “one another” commands of Scripture—loving, encouraging, confessing, serving, and stirring each other toward good works. Ultimately, the message reinforces that God brings growth, while believers are responsible for faithfully loving and discipling those already in their orbit through everyday, Spirit-led relationships.
In this message from Gospel of Mark 12:35–44, we step into the temple during the final week of Jesus' life and watch Him confront the religious leaders with a question they cannot answer. Quoting Psalms 110 and pointing back to the promise of 2 Samuel 7, Jesus asks how the Messiah can be both David's Son and David's Lord. The riddle exposes more than bad theology—it reveals hardened hearts. The scribes know the Scriptures inside and out, yet their love for recognition, status, and control proves they have missed the very One the Scriptures point to. This sermon unpacks that tension and reminds us: knowing who God is isn't about winning debates or looking spiritual—it's about lives transformed by the truth. The passage closes with a striking contrast at the temple treasury. As wealthy worshipers give from their abundance, a poor widow quietly offers two small copper coins—everything she had. Jesus declares her gift greater, not because of its size, but because of her surrender. Together, these scenes press one clear takeaway: knowing who God is shows up in how you live. From generosity to humility to daily obedience, our actions reveal what we truly believe. This message invites us to examine our own hearts—are we performing like the scribes, or trusting like the widow? And as we look to Jesus, the greater King who would soon give everything for us, we're called to respond with wholehearted faith.
Message from Kyle Burkholder on March 1, 2026
Text: Proverbs 11:24-26 Hosts: J. Kent Edwards Vicki Hitzges Nathan Norman Narrator: Brian French The CrossTalk Podcast is a production of CrossTalk Global, equipping biblical communicators, so every culture hears God's voice. To find out more, or to support the work of this ministry please visit www.crosstalkglobal.org Donate Produced by Nathan James Norman/Untold Podcast Production © 2026 CrossTalk Global
Renunciation is often thought of as letting go of things that do not benefit us. But is that the right understanding of “renunciation”? In this podcast, Bhante explains that in Buddhism, renunciation is not giving something up out of dissatisfaction, but joyfully letting go of what one is comfortable with out of wisdom. Drawing from historical discussions, true renunciation is not selfish or rooted in rejection, but grounded in understanding impermanence and expanding concern beyond oneself. He also clarifies how generosity lays the foundation for renunciation, as overcoming fear through compassionate giving cultivates the inner freedom needed to let go.
In this episode, I sit down with Susan Bratton, the “Intimacy Expert to Millions,” for a powerful conversation on grief, pleasure, sexual liberation, and lifelong vitality. We begin with how to hold rage and overwhelm without losing access to joy, and expand into how pleasure regulates the nervous system and restores power. Susan shares her work on ageless sexuality, orgasmic expansion, desire in long-term relationships, and why generosity — not performance — is the key to reigniting intimacy. We explore entheogens, radical honesty, and the idea that sexual literacy is a deeply agentic act in a culture shaped by repression.An uncensored conversation on pleasure as medicine, erotic agency, and the regenerative power of intimacy.In this episode you'll hear:00:00 Intro: Grief, Rage & Why Pleasure Is Essential08:13 Sexual Repression, Agency & the Documentary Behind Closed Doors18:59 Entheogens, Orgasm & Collective Connection33:10 Why Desire Fades & How to Reignite It42:04 Yoni Massage, Generosity & Moving Beyond “Duty Booty”50:04 Affairs, Accountability & The Erotic Work of Vulnerability55:34 Sensate Focus, Expanded Orgasm & Training the Nervous System for PleasureTHE SKINNY ON OUR SEXY GUESTSusan Bratton, known as the “Intimacy Expert to Millions,” is a passionate advocate for lifelong desire, connection, and ageless sexuality. She is the co-founder and CEO of Personal Life Media, Inc., publisher of the Better Lover
Over the coming decades, women will steward a majority of the wealth being passed from one generation to the next. For many, that responsibility will arrive suddenly—during seasons of grief, transition, or new beginnings. Yet within that shift lies a remarkable opportunity for wise and faithful stewardship. Sharon Epps, President of Kingdom Advisors and cofounder of Women Doing Well, joins us on today's show to share what she has learned after spending years studying this moment and walking alongside women as they step into it. A Quiet but Significant Shift Today, research consistently shows that women are inheriting a large portion of generational wealth. One primary reason is longevity—women often outlive their spouses by several years, placing financial responsibility squarely on their shoulders. In fact, nearly 95% of women will become the primary financial decision-maker at some point in their lives. Many step into that role unexpectedly, often while navigating grief, life transitions, or new responsibilities. The result is a profound shift happening quietly across generations—one with real implications for confidence, stewardship, and generosity. When Women Doing Well surveyed more than 7,300 Christian women—the largest study of its kind—one insight stood out: only about 6% felt confident or equipped to manage the resources God had entrusted to them. The issue wasn't a lack of desire. It was a lack of clarity, confidence, and inclusion in financial conversations. Many women had the responsibility, but not the preparation. That gap can feel overwhelming, especially when decisions arrive suddenly. Generosity Is Already There One of the most encouraging discoveries from the research was this: Christian women are already remarkably generous. They give more of their time and money than many of their peers. The desire to live generously is not something that needs to be created—it's already present. What many women want isn't simply to give more, but to give well. The opportunity is to help generosity grow from clarity and confidence rather than from fear or obligation. A strong correlation emerged between biblical understanding and generosity. The more women understood stewardship—recognizing God as the Owner and themselves as managers—the more purpose-driven their giving became. Discipleship shifts generosity from pressure to purpose. It reminds us that giving is not a test to pass, but a response to God's grace. From Overwhelm to Clarity: A Real Story One woman, whom we'll call Clara, had always given generously. But after inheriting a significant sum of money, she felt pulled in every direction—“a dab here, a little there,” without a sense of impact. Through a process of discernment and clarity, she began narrowing her giving while increasing her investment in areas aligned with her calling. Her response captured the transformation: “You've given me the freedom to say no so I can say a better yes.” Clarity didn't reduce her generosity—it deepened it. For many women, financial responsibility begins in the midst of grief. In those moments, wisdom matters. One helpful principle, often shared by trusted mentors, is this: avoid making drastic financial changes during the first year after a major loss. Decisions will need to be made, but there's rarely a need to rush. It's also vital to seek wise counsel. A trusted advisor who understands both financial realities and biblical stewardship can provide guidance, and bringing along a trusted friend or family member can offer needed perspective and emotional support. Finding Purpose Before Decisions Financial clarity often begins with personal clarity. Understanding how God has uniquely wired you—your experiences, passions, and calling—can shape how you steward resources. Many women find their generosity aligned with their life story: adoption, education, justice, poverty relief, or ministry areas where God has already been at work. Stewardship becomes more meaningful when it flows from identity and calling rather than obligation. When women gain clarity and confidence, measurable outcomes follow. Research shows that many increase both their financial giving and the time they invest in serving others. More importantly, they report greater peace, confidence, and joy. Generosity becomes a whole-life response—expressed through money, time, skills, and relationships. Generosity Without Pressure Growing in generosity doesn't mean saying yes to everything. True generosity flows from identity in Christ, not guilt or pressure. When fear or obligation drives a decision, it can be a signal to pause and pray. God is at work in many lives, raising up different stewards for different purposes. Saying no in one place often allows for a more faithful yes elsewhere. For advisors serving women in transition, relationship matters as much as expertise. Listening before leading, offering small and practical next steps, and creating an environment that feels relational—not transactional—can make all the difference. Guidance that is clear, manageable, and compassionate helps women move forward with confidence. A Word to Women Stepping Into This Role If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or uncertain, know this: you are not alone. Financial wisdom grows one step at a time. God has already been at work in your life, and the resources entrusted to you have purpose. Confidence develops through learning, community, and small acts of obedience. Stewardship is not a burden to carry alone—it can become an adventure of discovering how God wants to work through you. Some women have even formed giving circles, combining resources and discernment to support causes together. What began as uncertainty became what they now call “the adventure of giving.” If you're navigating this transition or preparing for it, consider seeking guidance and community. Learn more about the work of Women Doing Well and resources for growing in clarity and confidence. You can also connect with a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) who can provide biblically grounded financial counsel. The shift is already happening. And with it comes a profound opportunity—not just to manage wealth, but to steward it faithfully for God's purposes. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: As I prepare to buy a $400,000–$450,000 home—planning to put about 50% down and use a 15-year mortgage—what key questions should I ask lenders to secure the best rate and terms? Our Certified Kingdom Advisor recently left his firm to start his own practice. The current firm would charge about $1,000 in account-closure fees, but has offered to lower our management fee if we stay. Should we follow our advisor to his new firm or remain where we are, especially given the fees and our desire for biblically aligned investing? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Women Doing Well Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Summary In this episode of Means of Grace, John Yeager explores the significance of Lent and its evolution over the years, emphasizing the importance of reflection and spiritual growth. He is joined by Reverend Dr. In-Yong Lee, who shares her experiences as a district superintendent and the challenges faced by church leaders today. The conversation delves into the practices of Lent, including fasting, prayer, and giving, and discusses the recent regionalization within the United Methodist Church, highlighting the need for community support during these challenging times. Show Note: Quietly Courageous by Gil Rendle Chapters 00:00 Understanding Lent: A Journey of Reflection 02:57 The Role of Leadership in the Church 03:58 Navigating Challenges in Ministry 07:00 The Importance of Connection and Community 09:42 Practices of Faith: Prayer, Fasting, and Giving 12:51 The Essence of Fasting and Its Spiritual Significance 17:38 Tithing: Balancing Generosity and Responsibility 24:57 The Role of Wealth in Generosity 28:14 Understanding Regionalization in the UMC 36:01 Clergy Exhaustion and Community Support 44:43 Embracing Change During Lent 46:47 MOG-Like and Subscribe
The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/022626.cfmFather Daniel Klimek, PhD, challenges us to let the Golden Rule become the litmus test of every relationship. He reminds us that the command “do to others whatever you would have them do to you” is not only the law of the prophets but also a mirror of the contrasting dynamics found in the angelic and demonic hierarchies. In the demonic community, power is exercised through control, abuse and isolation, with stronger demons exploiting the weaker. The angelic community, by contrast, models generosity: The seraphim, nearest to God, receive the deepest experience of divine love and willingly transmit that love to the lower angelic and saintly orders, fostering communion rather than division.Father Daniel invites us to examine our own interactions. Do we, consciously or unconsciously, impose control, emotional abuse, or isolation on others or ourselves? He urges a radical empathy that goes beyond polite respect, asking us to mentally inhabit the other person's suffering, poverty, and woundedness. Such empathy opens the path to forgiveness, because we begin to see our hurt, not as merely an affront to our ego, but as the consequence of another soul bruised by pain.Viewing others through “supernatural eyes,” as Fr. Daniel puts it, means recognizing the inherent human dignity both of ourselves and of our neighbors. ★ Support this podcast ★
What does God really care about—your money, or your heart? In this message from Gospel of Matthew chapter 6, we explore stewardship, debt, ambition, generosity, and the powerful truth that where your treasure is, your heart will follow. This episode challenges us to rethink success, consumption, and what it means to seek the Kingdom first in a culture driven by more. ____ Welcome to the LifeHouse Church Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Whether you're listening at home, on your commute, or in a quiet moment during your day, we believe God has something personal and timely for you in this message. At LifeHouse, our heart is simple: to lead people to Know God, Grow together, and Go serve and make a difference. Through practical, Gospel-centered messages, we want to help you grow in your faith, experience real transformation, and live out your purpose in everyday life. These messages speak into real-life areas like relationships, marriage, family, purpose, emotional health, and spiritual growth—wherever you are on your faith journey.
Praise God for his gifts big and small. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.
Today we continue our week long look at steering our kids to the Lord, and away from the idolatrous trap of materialism. There is no quick way to survey the Bible's exhortations and warnings regarding money, wealth, and materialism. The Bible is clear that while God does bless many with abundance, it is the love of money and wealth that is sinful and idolatrous. The 10 Commandments forbid the worship of any god other than the one true God, along with coveting things that belong to others. Jesus tells us that one cannot serve both God and money, and that money can blind us to our need to worship and serve God. We are called to put our hope in God alone and to be content with what we have. God's people are to see themselves as stewards rather than owners of all they've been given. We are to honor the Lord with our wealth, giving freely and generously to the work of the Lord. Money and things cannot heal the brokenness in our lives as a result of sin. Only Jesus can!
Daily Dose of Hope February 25, 2026 Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8 Prayer to the Divine Tutor from St Clement of Alexandria (150–215): Be kind to Your little children, Lord; that is what we ask of You as their Tutor, You the Father, Israel's guide; Son, yes, but Father as well. Grant that by doing what You told us to do, we may achieve a faithful likeness to the Image and, as far as is possible for us, may find in You a good God and a lenient Judge. May we all live in the peace that comes from You. May we journey towards Your city, sailing through the waters of sin untouched by the waves, borne tranquilly along by the Holy Spirit, Your Wisdom beyond all telling. Night and day until the last day of all, may our praises give You thanks, our thanksgiving and praise to You: You who alone are both Father and Son, Son and Father, the Son who is our Tutor and our Teacher, together with the Holy Spirit. Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope daily Bible reading plan. We are currently walking through Paul's letters. We are working our way through our fifth pastoral letter, 2 Corinthians. Today's reading is 2 Corinthians 8. There is significant need among the believers in Jerusalem and Paul is imploring the churches in Macedonia and Greece to give, not out of obligation but truly out of love for their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Those in Jerusalem were Jewish believers who the Gentile Corinthians had never met. This offering would not have been part of a tithe, but rather over and beyond their normal giving, in order to help those who needed it. While the Macedonian churches were located in a fairly wealthy and prosperous area, that doesn't mean all the churches were affluent. There were some among them who were wealthy but many more were just working class or poor. And yet, Paul is calling them to give anyway. He has called all the Macedonian churches to give; this includes Corinth but also Philippi and Thessalonica. He is asking the Corinthians church to finish up their previous collection, keeping in mind the extreme need in Jerusalem. This is not a command, by any means, but rather encouragement to do what is right. Giving does not come naturally to human beings. We seem to have this need to keep things for ourselves. We tend toward selfishness over sacrifice. Generosity is something that God nurtures in our hearts. Jesus taught often about being generous. Think about Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The beauty in the Scripture is that it demonstrates that when we invest in the things of God, our heart will be pulled in that direction as well. We start by giving sacrificially and God changes our heart. What's been your experience with giving? Do you tithe? If you don't, then what keeps you from giving on that level? Have you ever given above and beyond the tithe, as Paul was encouraging the Corinthians to do? What motivated that giving? How has God blessed your giving? Blessings, Pastor Vicki
In this Midweek sermon, Co-Pastor Ezekiel Perez explores the concept of infinite generosity within the context of Christian stewardship. He emphasizes that true generosity goes beyond the traditional tithe, urging believers to give not just financially, but also of their time, skills, and resources. Co-Pastor challenges the congregation to move past the mindset of measuring their giving and instead embrace a lifestyle of open-handed generosity. He highlights the importance of aligning one's heart with God's will, suggesting that where one's treasure is, there their heart will be also. The lesson encourages believers to see generosity as a privilege and a reflection of their faith, rather than a mere obligation. By doing so, they can experience the boundless blessings that come from a generous spirit.Co-Pastor Ezekiel Perez | February 24, 2026The Fountain Apostolic ChurchSOW (2026)Learn more at tfachurch.com/plus
Buy My Book The Retirement You Didn't See Coming Let's Chat About Your Retirement Plans Book a time for us to talk Episode Description You've worked hard to build your nest egg. Now your adult children are struggling in a brutal housing market, drowning in debt, and navigating unstable careers. You want to help—but how much is too much? Will you enable dependence? Rob them of resilience? And what about your own retirement security? This episode tackles the question every parent wrestles with, but nobody wants to say out loud: should you sacrifice your retirement to help your kids? We explore the competing pressures, the frameworks for thinking it through, and the practical questions that will help you find your answer—without the guilt. Why This Is So Hard This question sits at the intersection of love, money, values, and generational change. You're feeling competing pressures: You want to help - They're entering a harder world: housing costs, debt, unstable jobs You don't want to enable dependence - You want them resilient, not reliant You've earned this money - You delayed gratification for decades. You want to enjoy it The inheritance question looms - IHT planning, fairness, timing—give now or later? Everyone has an opinion. Your friends do it differently. Society sends mixed messages. You're stuck in limbo. Four Frameworks for Thinking This Through Framework 1: Support vs. Rescue Support: House deposit in an impossible market. Health insurance during job transition. Education that opens doors. Rescue: Repeatedly bailing out credit card debt. Funding an unaffordable lifestyle. Solving problems they need to learn to solve. Ask: "Is this help moving them toward independence or keeping them stuck?" Framework 2: Timing—Now vs. Later Give now: They benefit when they need it most (30s-40s). You see the impact. Potential IHT savings. You can guide usage. Wait: Maintain security. Unknown future needs (healthcare, care costs). Flexibility if circumstances change. The truth: Most people never regret helping when they had the means. Many regret waiting too long. Framework 3: Equity vs. Need Equal feels fair. Need-based feels compassionate. One child struggles financially. Another thrives. One chose meaningful but lower-paying work. One has health issues. Both approaches can work. Transparency tends to avoid resentment. Framework 4: The Oxygen Mask Principle Your first obligation: secure your own retirement. If you give away too much and run out, you become their burden anyway. Most adult children don't want that. The question isn't "Can we afford to help?" It's "Can we afford to help without jeopardizing our own security?" Six Practical Questions to Ask Yourself 1. What values do we want to pass on? Independence? Family solidarity? Generosity? Different values = different decisions. 2. What did our parents do, and how do we feel about it? Your experience shapes your instincts—for better or worse. Sometimes we repeat patterns. Sometimes we overcorrect. 3. What do our children actually need vs. want? Have honest conversations. "What are the biggest barriers you're facing?" You might be surprised. 4. What are we comfortable with, emotionally? Forget "should." What can you live with? If helping makes you anxious, that anxiety poisons the gift. 5. What's our plan if they ask for more? Jobs are lost. Relationships end. Health issues arise. Do you have boundaries? Can you say no? 6. How do we communicate this? Clear communication avoids misunderstanding. Tell them your plans. Be honest. Your kids aren't mind readers. The Bottom Line There's no perfect answer. No formula. No rulebook. Some families give generously and strengthen bonds. Some create entitlement. Some don't give at all, and kids thrive. Some kids feel abandoned. It depends on the people, context, values, and communication. The worst thing you can do? Avoid the conversation. With your partner. Your planner. Your children. When money and family mix, silence breeds assumption. Assumption breeds resentment. Give yourself permission to set boundaries. You're not a bad parent if you say no. You're not selfish if you prioritise your security. You're not weak if you help. You're just human, navigating a complicated situation with love. Loving your children and taking care of yourself are not mutually exclusive. Humans vs Retirement - The messy, emotional, human side of retirement.
I believe God calls Christians to be generous because generosity is a key component of our spiritual growth. It's our normal human instinct to be stingy, to think of our own needs, and to be concerned with our own comfort and happiness. Yet, when we break out of that mold and be generous, we are becoming like Christ. One of the greatest characteristics of Jesus is that He was and is generous. If you want to be like Jesus, become a generous person. Main Points:1. Why does our level of giving matter to God? Because it reveals our heart. Generosity is an outward demonstration of what we love and what we hold most dear.2. So, what is it that keeps us from becoming more generous? It's a great question because most people I know truly want to become more generous. So, why aren't we. Often times, it comes down to fear. We are afraid that if we are generous, we won't have enough to meet our own needs.3. Generosity is a key to spiritual growth because it is a selfless characteristic. As we grow spiritually the things that matter to God become increasingly more important to us. Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 11:25 - “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”2 Corinthians 8:7 - “See that you also excel in this grace of giving.”Matthew 6:21 - “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”2 Corinthians 9:6 - “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group
Are you in the seat that God is calling you to? In this episode, Jeff and Kyle discuss: Living with curiosity and open communication. Generosity in influence. Learning and living in both the 1st and 2nd generation seats of organizations. Tapping into your emotional side. Key Takeaways: The family story is made up of 4 Ts, not 3: time, talent, treasure, and testimony. Write for your family alone. What do you want them to know and to carry forward? We must invest in the rising generation. Consider walking through the succession and transfer of influence sooner than you think. This can help to break the negative cycles that we may not even see. The focus of the family needs to come through the spirit. Get out of your head, and feel what God wants you to know and to do. "I'm talking about doing something that taps into this softer, emotional feeling side that at first feels very uncomfortable, but I believe the Holy Spirit will speak through it in ways that are unimaginable and are uniquely gifted to unleash something that is God-breathed." — Kyle Circle Episode References: Gospel Patrons: People Whose Generosity Changed the World by John Rinehart About Kyle Circle: Kyle is from a 19-generation farming family and was born into the largest 1st Gen strawberry farming family in the U.S., now in the wine business in the Central Coast of CA. They sold a 500-acre vineyard to the Gallos in 2018 and another 440 acres to Cupcake. Today, they're the largest grower for Joel Gott and Austin Hope in Santa Ynez and Paso in the Central Coast of California, with hundreds of acres of premium vineyards. The family history can be summed up as high-tech thinking in a low-tech industry, like agriculture. Today, the family holds various classes of real estate. This led him to start his 1st business when he was 11 years old, today owning land/vineyard, commercial, industrial & residential properties. He ended up having a 15-year professional music career where he played drums for Katy Perry. He did A&R, having found Francesca Battistelli getting her record deal, and managed a half dozen artists until 2010. His last artist was Nate Smith, who now has 3 #1 country singles and has been out with Morgan Wallen all last year and been out with Jason Aldean. Kyle was featured in Robert Frank's 2007 New York Times best-selling book, “Richistan: A Journey Through the American Wealth Boom and the Lives of the New Rich,” in Chapter 11 titled Astrokids. Robert was the Senior Editor of the Wall Street Journal's “The Wealth Report” for 18 years, is now the CNBC Wealth Editor, and has been hosting Inside Wealth since 2012. In 2005, along with a small group, co-created YPONextGen (now called YNG for raising the next generation of YPO/YPO Gold), which Kyle was part of for 7 years before joining EO (Entrepreneurs Organization) for 7 years, where he was also on the local board. There is now a YNG chapter in every major city in the world. He's always been a serial entrepreneur with a deep heart for pastors! Having chaired the national board for standingstoneministry.org for 4 yrs, on the board for 7 yrs, 2017-2021, and walked the founders through succession planning, which opened his eyes to how closely related the rich younger ruler and pastors and ministry leaders and their families were. Connect with Kyle Circle: Website: flourishingfamily.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kylecircle Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: arkosglobal.com Podcast: generousbusinessowner.com Book: arkosglobal.com/trading-up Email: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.com X: x.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: facebook.com/arkosglobal LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors Instagram: instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw
Thank you for joining us this week for worship! In our seventh study of our Follow Me series, we begin chapter 6 of Matthew where Pastor Bobby discusses generous giving and breaking down the Lord's prayer.
Week 1 - Generosity
If you've ever hidden in the back of a family photo, skipped a headshot session, or cringed when you saw a candid picture of yourself, this episode is for you.I sat down with Kristen Vallejo, a portrait and branding photographer based in upstate New York, who has made it her mission to help women feel comfortable and confident being seen. In this conversation, we unpack why so many of us (especially women navigating midlife) have such a complicated relationship with being photographed. We talk about the role social media has played in making us feel like every picture has to be perfect, why menopause can make it even harder to recognize yourself in photos, and how we can start to shift that.One of the most powerful reframes Kristen shares is this: visibility is generosity. When you hide from the camera, you're also withholding yourself ( your gifts, your presence, your relatability) from the people who need to see you. That hit me in a deep way, and I think it will for you too.We also talk about body diversity and representation, why photographers aren't looking at you with the critical lens you're using on yourself, and some practical tips to make any photo session feel less like a pressure cooker.Kristen's missing ingredient in midlife? Novelty. And I love that answer.In this episode, we cover:Why so many women approach the camera with terror, and what's underneath itHow social media has raised the bar for "acceptable" photos and what that costs usWhy going through menopause can make seeing yourself in photos feel particularly confrontingWhat body neutrality looks like in practice, even in a portrait sessionThe power of representation and why your visible presence matters more than you thinkPractical tips for preparing for a photo session without the overwhelmAbout Kristen Vallejo: Kristen Vallejo is a portrait and branding photographer based in upstate New York, specializing in entrepreneurs, small business owners, and those with animals in their work. She's passionate about capturing the real person behind the lens — not just a polished pose. You can find her at kristenvallejo.com and on Instagram at @kristenvallejophotography.Related Episodes:Is Feeling Seen the Missing Part of Your Midlife Story? with Dr. Jody Carrington — a beautiful conversation about connection, storytelling, and why being seen matters so deeply in midlife.How to Turn Your Body Image Inside Out in Midlife with Deb Shatker & Whitney Otto — practical frameworks for getting unstuck from the patterns that keep us at war with how we look.Ageism and Body Image in MidlWhat did you think of this episode? Click here and let me know!The wait list for The Midlife Body Image Lab program opens soon! Join my newsletter community to be the first to hear.
Pastor Bryan continues our Generosity sermon series, teaching that true generosity flows from the heart. He reminds us that our hearts will always follow our treasure—not just our words.
What does giving look like in the life of a person walking in the grace of God? Join us as we look at the elements, energy and effects of generosity in the lives of God's people.
Welcome back to In the Word with Malcolm Webber!Even though Jesus was and is God, He willingly emptied Himself of the “form” of God and the rights of His preexistent glory, and came in the form of a servant, obeying His Father even to the point of the terrible death of the cross. He did this for us; He did not look to His own interests, but to ours, serving us with an extraordinary and perfect example of self-giving love. Find out more about this love in the third part of Malcolm's message on Philippians 2:5-11, “Jesus' True Giving.”Related Resources from LeaderSource* Book: True Giving: A Brief Exposition of Philippians* Model Brief: Shaping a Culture of Generosity* Story: A Land of Faith, a Culture of Generosity* Video Course: Shaping a Culture of Generosity, Pt. 1* For More Teaching on Common Errors: Malcolm's MusingsNew to the series? Start here:More messages from Malcolm: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit leadersource.substack.com
Slovakia Today, English Language Current Affairs Programme from Slovak Radio
Why do people give? What does generosity really mean, and what shapes charitable behavior in Slovakia compared to other countries? To explore these questions, we speak with experimental and behavioral economist Matej Lorko. We discuss what behavioral economics reveals about human decision-making, how economists study altruism in laboratory settings, and whether charitable giving is driven more by empathy, moral values, or subtle forms of self-interest. We also examine how experimental research can inform public policy, support the nonprofit sector, and deepen our understanding of cooperation, trust, and prosocial behavior in modern societies. The new episode of Slovak Sound Check explores grammatical gender and polite forms of address in Slovak.
In order to be generous, we have to learn how to generate generosity. In today's message, Pastor Jeff Ables teaches very practical wisdom from scripture on how to properly manage our finances so that we can afford to live in "Generous City".Prayed to accept Jesus? Congratulations! Text SAVED to 337-222-3210 or click here https://bit.ly/CC_saved New to Crossroads Church? Learn all about us at https://mycrossroads.org
"You're always going to have blinders on you. You have to be open to sometimes things that go against what you originally believe, but yet are going to best support your business." —Chris Salem Sales stalls fast when teams talk in features and scripts while buyers think in challenges, results, and personality-driven needs. Many of us pour money into ads and lead gen, then wonder why conversations drag, trust stays low, and deals take too many touchpoints. This episode gets honest about the real gap: misaligned sales communication and mixed signals within the business. Chris Salem, an expert in business communication, shares how years of work in emotional intelligence, business communication, and revenue growth led to a simple, practical way to align messaging with buyer personalities and company culture. His work with small firms and 600-person construction teams shows how inside-out communication shifts can move KPIs, retention, and profit. Hit play to learn, reflect, and upgrade how our businesses talk, decide, and sell, including: The real reason lead gen and SEO underperform How buyer personalities shape decisions and timelines Using simple "what, how, who, why" messaging in sales Turning internal communication into better KPIs and profit Moving from control and reactivity to systems and delegation Why coachability, humility, and vision repetition change results Be Inspired! with Daniel: Website (Makings of a Millionaire Mindset) Website (Daniel Gomez Global) Facebook Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:44 Why Your Marketing Fails: The Real Reason Lead Gen and SEO Don't Convert 05:03 The 4 Buying Personalities Explained 09:35 What, How, Who, Why: Aligning Your Sales Message to Personality Types 13:08 Selling Is Serving: Trust, Rapport, and the Inside-Out Growth Formula 18:37 Grow the People, Grow the Business 21:02 Top 3 Small Business Problems: Messaging, Roles, and Delegation 24:02 Letting Go of "This Is How We've Always Done It" in Leadership 29:41 Boundaries, Generosity, and the Law of Prosperity in Business
In the last week of our Dollars and Sense series, Dave Ramsey challenges listeners to see how even a small increase in giving could eradicate domestic hunger, fund foster care adoptions, and dramatically impact individual lives, showing the massive difference generosity can make. He explains that God doesn't ask us to give because He needs our money, but because giving reshapes our hearts to reflect His, with tithing as the baseline and offerings as acts of joyful, surplus generosity. Ultimately, he points to Bible truth—especially Gospel of John 3:16—that Jesus already paid our greatest debt, and that true financial peace flows from accepting that gift and living with open-handed, Christlike generosity.
We ought to be motivated to give cheerfully because of the bold promises God makes to generous Christians, especially his revelation that he takes special joy in joyful generosity.
Homily of Fr. Mike O'Connor from Mass on February 22, 2026 at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church in Bay St. Louis, MS. Readings Gn 2:7-9; 3:1-7 Rom 5:12-19 Mt 4:1-11 If you would like to donate to OLG and her livestream ministry, please go to https://olgchurch.net/give
In week eight of The Consecrated Life, Pastor Josh teaches on Offer: what it means to bring God a costly, joy-filled offering that honors Him, shapes our hearts, and prepares us for what's next. From Cain & Abel to King David's altar and the temple offerings in Chronicles, we see that God isn't after leftovers—He's worthy of our best. Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
Daily Power Affirmations for your Creative Maniac Mind (in 60 Seconds)
Click here to Shop Affirmation Decks, Oracle Decks, and more! Use Promo code: RCPODCAST20 for 20% off your first order! Today's Power Affirmation: I lead the best fucking life ever. Today's Oracle of Motivation: While you should always live your best life, what happens if you lead others to discover their best lives too? Your energies and positive momentum combine into abundance tornadoes, ripping through and destroying Depression Avenue, Resistance City, and the almighty United ProcrastiNations. Doing what you love births the divine through you, and helping others discover what they love births divinity throughout the galaxy. Generosity always shakes the tree of prosperity. You were born to lead the way. Designed to Motivate Your Creative Maniac Mind The 60-Second Power Affirmations Podcast is designed to help you focus, affirm your visions, and harness the power within your creative maniac mind! Join us every Monday and Thursday for a new 60-second power affirmation followed by a blast of oracle motivation from the Universe (+ a quick breathing meditation). It's time to take off your procrastination diaper and share your musings with the world! For more musings, visit RageCreate.com Leave a Review & Share! Apple Podcast reviews are one of THE most important factors for podcasts. If you enjoyed the show, please take a second to leave the show a review on Apple Podcasts! Click this link: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Hit “Listen on Apple Podcasts” on the left-hand side under the picture. Scroll down under “Ratings & Reviews” & click “Write A Review” Leave an honest review. You're awesome!
Message from Kyle Burkholder on February 22, 2026