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Why do we give? Many Christians would answer simply: because Scripture tells us to. But if giving is only an obligation, something we do because we “should,” generosity will always feel heavy—like a tax, a duty, or a calculation. The Bible offers a far more compelling vision. It tells a story where generosity flows not from guilt or pressure, but from grace.Most of us genuinely want to be generous. Few people say, “I don't want to give.” Yet generosity doesn't always come easily. We run the numbers. We think about what's coming next. We worry whether our gift will make a difference. Sometimes we even reduce generosity to a math problem—something we'll do once everything feels secure.Beneath those questions is a deeper one: Why do we give in the first place?Scripture doesn't begin the conversation about giving with budgets or even with commands. It begins with identity. Before you ever give a dollar, you are already living on a gift. Paul writes, “For by grace you have been saved through faith… it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). You have received mercy instead of judgment, forgiveness in place of guilt, adoption instead of estrangement. Daily bread, new life, a secured future in Christ—all of it is grace.And when grace takes root, generosity follows.Paul describes this beautifully: “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). This isn't just poetic language—it's the pattern of Christian generosity. Jesus did not cling to comfort, status, or security. As Philippians 2:7 says, He emptied Himself. He entered our poverty so we could share His riches. The gospel doesn't merely forgive sinners; it forms a generous people who reflect the heart of the Giver.That means our giving is never about earning God's favor or proving our faith. “We love because he first loved us” (1 John 4:19). The same is true with generosity—we give because He first gave.This changes the tone entirely. Instead of pressure, generosity becomes privilege. Instead of fear—fear of not having enough, fear of loss—it becomes trust. Giving becomes a declaration that God is our provider, not our bank account, and that our security is anchored in Christ, not in financial margins.And this grace-shaped generosity is not reserved for the wealthy. Every believer has received the riches of Christ, which means every believer has something to give. Sometimes it looks like a financial sacrifice. Other times, like hospitality, encouragement, time, or presence. Generosity is broader than money and deeper than obligation.In the end, we don't give to become generous people. We give because God has already been generous with us. Generosity doesn't begin with what we give—it begins with what we've received. When grace becomes the foundation, giving becomes a joy.———————————————————————————————————————If you'd like to explore how the gospel reshapes the way we think about money, stewardship, and generosity, we're about to release a new 21-day devotional called Our Ultimate Treasure, written by our own Rob West. It's designed to help you slow down, reflect on God's grace, and connect biblical faith to everyday financial decisions. You can preorder your copy—or place a bulk order for your church or small group—at FaithFi.com/Shop. Or receive it automatically when you become a FaithFi Partner at FaithFi.com/Give.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm recently widowed, and our home is for sale. Once it sells, I'll have a significant amount of money to manage wisely. I'm debt-free and have family I'd like to bless, but I also want to make good long-term decisions. Where should I start?My boyfriend is 62 and took early retirement. He's about to receive a profit-sharing payout but has no plan beyond keeping the money in cash. I'm trying to help him figure out what to do with it. What's the best way to get him started?My daughter is a teacher with a pension and many years before retirement. She has about $25,000 in a high-yield savings account. Would opening a Roth IRA at a place like Schwab or Fidelity be the best next step, or should we consider other options for long-term growth?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Financial Next Steps After Losing A Spouse by Valerie Neff Hogan, J.D., CFP (Faithful Steward Issue 3 Article)Widow ConnectionNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.
We should give willingly and proportionately, trusting God to accomplish good through our gifts and to provide for us in the process.
Grace in action
Generosity multiplies impact. In week 3 of our series First And Best we learn how our giving fuels real change, transforms lives, and leaves a legacy far bigger than ourselves.
Most people, when asked about their biggest financial regret, will point to mistakes involving debt, missed investment opportunities, or overspending. But for today's guest, the regret was far more surprising—and far more spiritual. Dr. Art Rainer says his greatest financial regret is not having started tracking his generosity sooner.On this episode of Faith & Finance, Dr. Art Rainer joins us to talk about how something as simple as recording our giving can strengthen our stewardship, deepen our joy, and align our financial lives more closely with Scripture. Rainer, founder of Christian Money Solutions and the Institute for Christian Financial Health, has spent years helping believers think biblically about money. But this particular practice—tracking generosity—came to him through a friend and quickly reshaped his financial priorities.Dr. Rainer identifies four compelling reasons every believer should consider tracking their giving. First, generosity is not merely an optional add-on to the Christian life; according to Scripture, it's a financial priority. Proverbs 3:9 calls us to honor the Lord with our wealth and with the firstfruits of our increase. God created us not to stockpile resources but to act as conduits of His provision. If generosity stands at the front of faithful stewardship, it makes sense to pay attention to it—just as we would with saving, budgeting, or debt reduction.Second, Rainer explains that we naturally “chase what we track.” What we measure shapes what we pursue. Many of us track our net worth, our spending categories, or our fitness goals—and we make progress because the very act of monitoring fuels intentionality. If that's true for paying off debt or saving for a car, why wouldn't it be even more true for generosity, one of the most transformative habits in the Christian life?Third, he notes that generosity is missing from the financial dashboards believers tend to rely on. Our balance sheets and net worth statements are helpful tools, but they tell only part of the story—and often reward the very behaviors Scripture warns us not to idolize. In fact, traditional financial statements treat giving as a negative, a depletion of wealth, even though Scripture teaches that generosity stores up lasting treasure (Matthew 6:19–21). Tracking giving puts what God values most back into view.Finally, tracking generosity helps believers remember why they give in the first place. Every dollar represents impact—lives changed, ministries strengthened, needs met, and the gospel advanced. While most of that impact won't be fully seen until eternity, keeping a record helps us trace God's faithfulness and celebrate His work through us. It turns giving into worship, gratitude, and mission rather than mere obligation.Dr. Rainer concludes with simple encouragement to get started: look back at prior giving, record it, and move forward. A spreadsheet is enough. The goal isn't pride, but praise—remembering God's provision and rejoicing in the privilege of generosity.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm receiving a substantial inheritance—approximately half a billion dollars—and neither my children nor I need it. I want to use it wisely and not simply pass the responsibility to my kids. How should I approach that?My sister and I want to start a Christian film studio to create apologetics content. What does it take legally to set up a 501(c)(3), and how would someone support themselves financially while running one?I just had a CD mature, and I'd like to reinvest the $50,000 into an account that yields more than 2%. I remember you mentioned something in the 6% range, which is now around 5%. What are my options for safe investments with higher yields?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Splitting Heirs: Giving Your Money and Things to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives by Ron Blue with Jeremy WhiteChristian Money SolutionsInstitute for Christian Financial HealthExcellence in Giving | National Christian Foundation (NCF)GainbridgeBankrateWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.
Take Back Time: Time Management | Stress Management | Tug of War With Time
What does it mean to choose a word for the year — and actually live it?In this solo episode, Penny shares why generosity became her word of the year and how it's shaping the way she moves through each month. Rather than treating generosity as something to do, she explores it as a way of being — one that begins with letting go and unfolds through intentional monthly themes.This episode walks through the structure behind the practice, offering a grounded, sustainable approach to living generosity with clarity, presence, and purpose throughout the year.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://pennyzenker360.com/positive-productivity-podcast/
If you asked someone about their biggest financial regret, you’d probably expect to hear about debt or investments. But for our guest today, it was something else entirely—not tracking his generosity. On the next Faith & Finance Live with Rob West, Dr. Art Rainer shares four compelling reasons this simple practice can shape your heart and strengthen your stewardship. Then, it’s your calls on various financial topics. That’s Faith & Finance Live, where biblical wisdom meets today’s finances—weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
BY FAITH - The GIFT of GENEROSITY
Most leaders live on autopilot and hope things work out. In this solo episode, Bob unpacks five "quiet laws" that high‑impact, generous leaders live by, often without even realizing it. When you infuse these laws with generosity, you create compounding wins: stronger teams, better systems, and a culture where people feel capable, trusted, and excited to contribute. Bob shares stories from his financial planning days, where mastering technical knowledge wasn't enough until he learned to own results, share what he knew, and build relationships through generous action. He then walks through Gilbert's, Falkland's, Wilson's, Kidlin's, and Murphy's Laws and reframes each as a practical tool for building a generous workplace culture that can handle mistakes, grow through challenges, and avoid burnout. Throughout the episode, Bob challenges you to shift from self‑protective leadership to generous leadership: owning outcomes, timing your generosity, focusing on mastery over money, giving radical clarity, and building systems that absorb chaos rather than fear it. *Enroll in the "Feeling Generous" Email course
Send us a textAfter Sabbath School quiz time, DeeDee gets invited to a fall festival—but it's the same night her family collects canned food for people in need. Mom and Dad let her choose. DeeDee prays, remembers the lesson about doing what Jesus wants, and decides to serve. House after house, some doors open and some don't—until a nearly dark home reveals a family with no food at all. DeeDee insists they help, and she and Mom return with groceries. That night she realizes following Jesus to help others was “the most fun ever,” and a clear “Jesus footprint” she can't wait to share. Talk about it:What hard choice did DeeDee face, and how did she decide?Why was knocking on the almost-dark house important?When have you sensed a “Jesus footprint” guiding you to help someone?What's one way your family can serve a neighbor this week?Visit our website: kathyskidsstorytime.orgWe'd love to hear from you.To reach us quickly, click the “Send us a text” link at the top of the episode description.Or write to us by mail:Kathy's Kids StorytimePO Box 44270Charlotte, NC 28215-0043
“They make their own wine or olive oil. They have fruit trees. They are so willing to share, to make you taste, to invite you for lunch and dinner, to teach you something. It's a very generous, open approach that was very new for me. It should be normal and obvious, but it's not. It's no longer like this in big cities.”We're in great company with Giorgia Goggi, the Head Chef of Masseria Moroseta—who along with her friends turned family, became the stewards behind this modern farmhouse in Ostuni. Here they have curated an elegant but familiar environment, a place created for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere between nature, good food, design and beauty. A white stone house standing proudly on a ridge overlooking the Adriatic Sea, surrounded by five hectares of organic olive groves, Masseria Moroseta embodies the essence of Puglia—a unique land, a clear sky, warm scents and simple flavors distilled into every detail.In this episode, Giorgia shares how slowing down to the rhythm of seasons, trusting ingredient-driven creativity, and gathering around a table with strangers who become friends, reminds us why we fell in love with cooking, travel, and community in the first place.Top Takeaways[1:55] From childhood family meals to professional calling, Giorgia transformed her greatest passion into her life's work—finally finding the creative freedom to make her voice heard.[5:00] In Puglia, Giorgia discovered what she didn't know was missing—a landscape where centuries-old olive trees, generous neighbors, and ingredients alive with flavor make creativity not just possible, but inevitable.[10:10] Carlo Lanzini envisioned Masseria Moroseta as a classical Puglian farmhouse—a simple, purposeful design born from agriculture where every space served the land—then reimagined it for today with reverence for tradition and place.[11:35] A day in the life of a Head Chef shifts with the seasons—winter's quietude, spring's renewal, summer's full energy—a rhythm that honors both the land's cycles and the creative space needed to truly innovate.[15:35] With only six rooms and intentionally unscheduled days, guests naturally surrender their itineraries to discover what matters most—a leisurely breakfast, a nap in the afternoon sun, wine at sunset—the very rhythm that defines the Moroseta lifestyle.[22:15] Each Puglian ingredient holds infinite possibilities ensuring Giorgia's work is never finished, always evolving.[25:35] Through workshops, Giorgia steps away from behind the counter to sit as an equal among friends—rediscovering the joy that first drew her to cooking, while guests transform from strangers into a community bound by shared meals and stories.[29:30] Rather than expanding rooms, Moroseta expanded possibilities—holiday villas for friends, boat tours along the Adriatic, restaurant collaborations—each experience another lens through which guests discover the richness of Puglia, always rooted in the same care and intention.Notable MentionsStudio Andrew TrotterTortellini en BrodoNocino Liqueur Visit For YourselfMasseria Moroseta Website | @masseriamoroseta@morosetakitchen | @moroseta_homes | @moroseta_boats
Fluent Fiction - Norwegian: Warm Hearts in Oslo's Winter: A Tale of Sibling Generosity Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/no/episode/2026-01-22-08-38-20-no Story Transcript:No: Det var en kald vinterdag i Oslo, og snøen dalte sakte ned over byens travle gater.En: It was a cold winter day in Oslo, and snow was slowly falling over the city's busy streets.No: Oslo Vintermarked var et vakkert syn, opplyst av varme lys fra de mange små trebodene.En: The Oslo Vintermarked was a beautiful sight, illuminated by warm lights from the many small wooden booths.No: Duften av ristede kastanjer og gløgg fylte luften mens folk beveget seg mellom bodene, pakket inn i sine varme skjerf og luer.En: The scent of roasted chestnuts and gløgg filled the air as people moved between the booths, wrapped up in their warm scarves and hats.No: Midt i denne livlige mengden gikk Sigrid og Leif, søsken med hver sin plan for dagen.En: In the midst of this lively crowd walked Sigrid and Leif, siblings each with their own plan for the day.No: Sigrid, praktisk som alltid, hadde et bestemt mål: å finne en ny vinterkåpe.En: Sigrid, practical as always, had a specific goal: to find a new winter coat.No: Hennes gamle kåpe var slitt og hun trengte desperat en ny, som hun håpet kunne tåle flere vintre fremover.En: Her old coat was worn out, and she was in desperate need of a new one, which she hoped could withstand several winters to come.No: "Vi skal finne noe fint til deg, Sigrid," sa Leif med sitt vanlige smil.En: "We'll find something nice for you, Sigrid," said Leif with his usual smile.No: Han elsket å spre glede og hadde ofte en optimistisk holdning til det meste.En: He loved spreading joy and often had an optimistic attitude towards most things.No: "Denne gangen må jeg holde meg innenfor budsjettet," svarte Sigrid, med blikket festet på de ulike butikkene.En: "This time I need to stay within the budget," replied Sigrid, with her gaze fixed on the various shops.No: Hun visste hvor stramt hun måtte holde pengene, men ønsket seg likevel noe som både så pent ut og var holdbart.En: She knew how tightly she needed to hold onto her money but still wanted something that looked nice and was durable.No: Ved den første boden de stoppet ved, prøvde hun på en kåpe som var både vakker og varm, men da hun så prislappen, sukket hun stille.En: At the first booth they stopped by, she tried on a coat that was both beautiful and warm, but when she saw the price tag, she sighed quietly.No: Den var altfor dyr.En: It was way too expensive.No: Mens de fortsatte å lete, prøvde hun flere alternativer, men ingen av dem ga henne den følelsen som den første hadde gjort.En: As they continued to search, she tried several alternatives, but none of them gave her the feeling that the first one had.No: Hun var i villrede, dratt mellom ønsket om kvalitet og behovet for rimelighet.En: She was at a loss, torn between the desire for quality and the need for affordability.No: "Jeg vet du liker den første," sa Leif plutselig.En: "I know you like the first one," Leif suddenly said.No: "Hvorfor ikke kjøpe den?En: "Why not buy it?No: Jeg kan legge til de ekstra hundrelappene du mangler.En: I can add the extra hundrelappene you're short."No: "Sigrid stoppet opp og så på ham.En: Sigrid stopped and looked at him.No: "Men Leif, du har dine egne utgifter," svarte hun.En: "But Leif, you have your own expenses," she replied.No: Hun visste hvor impulsiv han kunne være.En: She knew how impulsive he could be.No: "Jeg insisterer," han smilte varmt.En: "I insist," he smiled warmly.No: "Hva er poenget med penger hvis jeg ikke kan hjelpe deg når du trenger det?En: "What's the point of money if I can't help you when you need it?No: Dessuten gjør det meg glad å se at du får det du ønsker deg.En: Besides, it makes me happy to see you get what you want."No: "Med en blanding av takknemlighet og overraskelse aksepterte Sigrid tilbudet hans.En: With a mix of gratitude and surprise, Sigrid accepted his offer.No: Hun kjøpte kåpen, den samme hun hadde forelsket seg i ved første blikk.En: She bought the coat, the same one she had fallen in love with at first sight.No: Hun lovet seg selv å betale ham tilbake så snart hun kunne.En: She promised herself to pay him back as soon as she could.No: Da de forlot markedet, kjente Sigrid en ny varme, ikke bare fra den nye kåpen, men også fra Leifs generøse gest.En: As they left the market, Sigrid felt a new warmth, not just from the new coat, but also from Leif's generous gesture.No: Hun hadde innsett at det var greit å ta imot hjelp noen ganger, og at hun ikke alltid trengte å klare alt alene.En: She had realized that it was okay to accept help sometimes and that she didn't always need to handle everything on her own.No: Hun smilte, og de gikk hjemover sammen, gjennom den snødekte byen, med hjertene litt lettere enn før.En: She smiled, and they walked home together, through the snow-covered city, with their hearts a bit lighter than before. Vocabulary Words:illuminated: opplystbooths: boderdesperate: desperatwithstand: tåleaffordability: rimelighetimpulsive: impulsivextent: utgifterinsist: insisteregesture: gestgrateful: takknemlighetsibling: søskenpractical: praktiskgoal: målbudget: budsjettdurable: holdbartprice tag: prislappalternatives: alternativertorn: drattgenerous: generøsrealized: innsetthandle: klarehearts: hjertenewinter coat: vinterkåpewarmth: varmecheerful: gledeoptimistic: optimistisklack: manglerexpense: utgiftroasted: ristedeneed: behovet
Ron Blue is a pioneering Christian financial planner, longtime CPA, and founder of the firms and ministries that helped shape today's faith-based financial movement. After growing up in Indiana, studying at Indiana University, and working for KPMG in New York, Dallas, and San Francisco, Ron returned home to start his own CPA firm in 1970. That firm would grow into one of the top 50 accounting firms in the country, and later, Ron would go on to launch a fee-based financial planning firm for Christians, work closely with Campus Crusade (Cru), and help birth Kingdom Advisors and related initiatives that now influence thousands of advisors and families around the world. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Ron to trace how a rigid religious upbringing, an intense drive for success, and a quiet conversion moment on the way to a golf game all led to a radical decision to walk away from a thriving CPA practice and follow God's call to Atlanta. Ron shares how that step of faith, a series of "turning points" he only recognized in hindsight, and a growing conviction that there's no such thing as an independent financial decision laid the groundwork for Christian financial planning, national-level generosity, and ultimately the founding of Kingdom Advisors. "Everything turned when I realized it all hinged on the resurrection. If the resurrection happened, Christianity is true and I had to respond to that." - Ron Blue "There's no such thing as an independent financial decision. Every choice you make with money touches your family, your future, and your ability to give." - Ron Blue "I really believe the church is the next frontier for biblical financial wisdom. We're just now seeing how all these years of proof-of-concept were preparation for serving the local church." - Ron Blue This Week on The Wow Factor: • Ron's Indiana roots, early success track, and what drew him to the "big time" at KPMG in New York • Leaving a secure global firm to start a CPA practice in Indianapolis and realizing most work was really counseling around money and taxes • Childhood legalism, the soapbox derby story, and how early church experiences shaped his reaction against faith • Ron's journey from "success first" to wrestling with the resurrection and praying to receive Christ alone in his car • Moving to Atlanta after a clear call from Philippians 3 and a literal "For Sale by Owner" sign in the attic • How a time-based CPA model became the blueprint for a fee-for-advice Christian financial planning firm • The "first million-dollar giver" and the early financial plan that proved generosity could increase cash flow • Being let go by the board of the firm that bore his name—and why that painful moment was a turning point • Practical stories of cash-in-hand generosity to families, single moms, and unseen workers • Ron's vision for serving local churches through trained Kingdom Advisors and holistic financial discipleship Ron Blue's Word of Wisdom: Ron believes the local church is the next major frontier for biblical financial discipleship. After decades of proving that faith-based financial principles work, he sees churches uniquely positioned to help people understand stewardship, generosity, and calling at every life stage. Connect With Ron Blue: Kingdom Advisors Ron Blue Institute Blue Trust Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on X
(Melbourne Insight Meditation)
Martin Shaw is a storyteller and mythologist who joined Re-Enchanting two years ago to describe his mystical encounter during a forest vigil that led to his embrace of Christianity. His new book ‘Liturgies of the Wild' weaves his own journey with the many folk tales and stories he has gathered throughout his life to re-enchant the God story for a new generation of seekers.For Martin Shaw: https://drmartinshaw.com/ For 'Liturgies Of The Wild': https://www.amazon.co.uk/Liturgies-Wild-Myths-that-Make/dp/1846048915 If you found this conversation interesting, Seen & Unseen, the creators of Re-Enchanting, offers thousands of articles exploring how the Christian faith helps us understand the modern world. Discover more here: www.seenandunseen.com Generosity changes things — in us, in others and in the world.At Stewardship, we help Christians give well and see their generosity make a real difference.Find out how a Stewardship Giving Account can help you give, grow, and live generously every day.https://stwdshp.org/re-enchanting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
January 18, 2026 Acts 2:36-47“Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”
Jeremy C. Park interviews Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Scott Mann, former U.S. Army Green Beret, Founder and President of Rooftop Leadership, bestselling author, and speaker, who discusses his 23-year military career and his transition into developing "rooftop leadership" concepts focused on building trust and human connections. Scott highlights his work as a writer, including his New York Times bestseller, "Nobody is Coming to Save You," and his upcoming book "The Generosity of Scars," which releases on May 12, 2026, and explores storytelling and vulnerability in leadership. The conversation concludes with a discussion of Scott's one-person show "11 Days" based on his best-selling book, which tells the story of the 2021 Afghanistan evacuation and demonstrates the powerful impact of storytelling in processing shared experiences and fostering connection.
Dharma Seed - dharmaseed.org: dharma talks and meditation instruction
(Melbourne Insight Meditation)
In this podcast, Bhante explores how human life is largely shaped by physical, emotional, and social survival, and why these areas can never fully bring lasting satisfaction. It explains how mindfulness introduces deeper values—wisdom, compassion, and generosity—that arise beyond survival and create moments of freedom and meaning. By choosing to practice these values even during challenges, we transform difficulties into opportunities for genuine growth and well-being.
Have you ever had one of those moments when you stop and think, "How did I miss that?" The holy moment. The gentle nudge. The quiet work of God hidden inside an ordinary day. That’s exactly why I couldn’t wait to share this week’s episode of The Love Offering Podcast with you. I’m joined by the hilarious and heartfelt Cynthia Yanof to talk about her book How’d I Miss That?—a refreshing reminder that God is just as present in the small, awkward, everyday moments as He is in the big ones. In our conversation, Cynthia invites us to laugh (a lot), exhale, and see our lives with fresh eyes as we talk about: Why it’s not just the “big” moments God uses to bring light into our homes and communities Living each day with grace, forgiveness, and generosity—for others and ourselves Finding extraordinary faith in very ordinary places And yes… even the holy moments that happen with spinach in our teeth and our shirt tucked into our Spanx This episode is for every woman who once thought she’d change the world—and now mostly changes the toilet paper roll (again). It’s a gentle, joyful reminder that tiny acts of faith, sown daily, matter deeply to God. So grab a Diet Coke, pull up a chair, and join us. I think you’ll feel seen, encouraged, and reminded that nothing in your life is wasted—not even the small stuff. You can listen to the episode wherever you listen to podcasts, and I’d love to hear what resonates most with you. With love,Rachael Connect with Cynthia: https://cynthiayanof.com/ Connect with Rachael: https://rachaelkadams.com/ Download the Free Love Always Devotional: https://rachaelkadams.com/free/ Support the Show: https://rachaelkadams.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this episode of The Leader's Notebook (Ep. 296), I invite you into one of the most powerful yet often overlooked truths in Scripture—what God is really like. From John 1:16–18, we see that Jesus is the full revelation of the Father, and what He reveals is not distance, anger, or reluctance, but grace upon grace. Moses brought the law, but Jesus came to show us the generous, giving, sacrificial heart of God. The Word became flesh so we could see clearly that God's nature is grace multiplied by grace. This message calls us beyond theoretical faith into a life shaped by generosity, forgiveness, and joyful surrender. Grace is not merely something we receive; it is the very life of God expressed through us. When we understand how completely we are forgiven, loved, and welcomed, we are freed to live boldly, give freely, and follow Christ wherever obedience leads. That is the adventure of real Christianity—and it begins with knowing the Father as He truly is. – Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:28) - John 1:8-9(00:04:38) - What is at the Heart of Christianity?(00:12:03) - Living a Life of Grace(00:17:02) - The Joy of Generosity(00:20:31) - Tithing(00:23:47) - God's Grace and Truth(00:28:54) - Adventures in the Life of Grace(00:32:29) - The Real Adventure of Love and Mercy(00:35:18) - The Leader's Notebook
Disney's High School Musical director-choreographer Kenny Ortega is in the studio, wildcats! The legendary creative (also behind classics like Newsies, Hocus Pocus and the Descendants franchise) joins The Art of Kindness with Robert Peterpaul to celebrate 20 years of "breaking free" with the DCOM. This episode touches on: - How gratitude and kindness have shaped Kenny Ortega's legendary career and the enduring legacy of High School Musical. - Incredible behind-the-scenes stories and leadership insights from Hocus Pocus, Newsies, and, of course, the HSM franchise. - The impact of collaborating with folks like Cameron Boyce, Bette Midler and Gene Kelly have had on him + so much more. - There may even be a surprise from a High School Musical star! KENNY ORTEGA a is a renowned director, producer, and choreographer famous for creating family-friendly musical hits like Disney's High School Musical and Descendants franchises, cult classics Hocus Pocus and Newsies, and choreographing beloved films such as Dirty Dancing and Pretty in Pink, plus extensive work with icons like Michael Jackson, Madonna and Cher. He started in theater and music videos, then transitioned to film and TV, earning acclaimed and awards like a Disney Legends Award for his genre-bending work. Support the Cameron Boyce Foundation: https://www.thecameronboycefoundation.org/ Follow Kenny @kennyortegablog Follow us: @artofkindnesspod / @robpeterpaul youtube.com/@artofkindnesspodcast Support the show! (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theaok) Got kindness tips or stories? Want to just say hi? Please email us: artofkindnesspodcast@gmail.com Music: "Awake" by Ricky Alvarez & "Sunshine" by Lemon Music Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What is going to happen on Day 41? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Carl discuss: Finding your partner who will support you in the good and the bad.Understanding the ebbs and flows of business and real estate.Giving back in everything you do.The importance of giving back to kids in the community. Key Takeaways: Always lend a hand. If you have to lend two hands, they may not want the help.The streets are filled with squirrels that couldn't make a decision. Trust yourself, make a decision, and move forward.Partner with those who have the same vision in life, in business, and in giving.If you're looking for a cause to champion, consider childhood reading. Reading is one of the key indicators of success for children and teens. "Don't give up, because a lot of times people quit right before. You don't know, the next day might have been the day." — Carl Fochler Episode References: Program - A Better World: https://abetterworldcharlotte.org/abwprograms/ About Carl Fochler: Carl Fochler, Founder and Managing Partner of Queen City Land, founded the company in 2011, where he determines the goals and overall vision of Queen City Land. Carl's career in real estate started in 1989 after he graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor's in Science Business Administration with a focus on Marketing. He moved to Charlotte and began working for Ryan Homes in 1990. During his 7-year tenure with Ryan Homes, Carl consistently ranked in the top 1% companywide in sales. In 1997, Carl followed his dream to be an entrepreneur and founded the real estate firm, Panther Realty. There, he led a team of over 70 agents and quickly built Panther Realty into one of the most dominant Real Estate firms in the Charlotte MSA, before selling to ERA.Carl and his wife Amy, a veteran attorney, currently reside in Waxhaw, North Carolina, with their 3 daughters, Paisley, Paxton, and Payton. They enjoy sporting events, live music, and traveling to all their daughters' events. In addition to the busy schedule, they remain very active in their church, and Carl is on the board of “A Better World,” an organization founded to uplift underserved youth in Charlotte. Program - A Better World was founded in 2001 by Pastor Ken Gilliard and Forest Hill Church, who identified the need for a positive, educational, after-school program in West Charlotte. When A Better World began, it served eight students two days a week. Thanks to the tireless work of Pastor Ken and his team, the program now serves approximately seventy students five days a week. The kids who stick with A Better World are, at the very least, guaranteed a positive experience and quite possibly one that will change their lives.Each day, our students receive a hot meal, homework support, and small group instruction from teachers who are committed to their well-being. Twice a week, students participate in group therapy sessions with licensed instructors and engage in literacy lessons via i-Ready, an evidence-based education tool. Every week, A Better World's students partake in expansive extracurricular activities, and their parents gain access to our community pantry, where those in need receive a 7-day supply of groceries. Parents are also invited to attend our community workshops, where they learn how to best support their children's success in the classroom and at home. Connect with Carl Fochler:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-fochler-492733110 Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw
Kankelfritz & Friends chat about where and why they are heading to Africa over the next week. Also, Matt calls in and shares an amazing story of generosity.
If you want to give through Grace Church you can do so here: https://pushpay.com/g/grace-alone?src=hpp&r=monthlyJoin Pastor Rick as he shares the power of living open-handed—trusting God with your fears, your future, and your finances. This 3-week series will help you release pressure, embrace God's wisdom, and experience the deep joy that generosity brings.Find out more about Grace Church here: https://gracechurchco.com/
Hey, it's Katie and I want to welcome you to this special bonus episode. It'll be here for you completely ad-free for the next week so you can get a feel of what it's like to be a PREMIUM member. If you'd like an easy ad-free experience for all of our podcasts - that's over 200 episodes each month, then JOIN PREMIUM today at https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium A gentle meditation inviting you to witness and embody acts of generosity, cultivating warmth and connection within yourself. Breathe with me
Changing your mindset from "owner" to "manager" is one of the best ways to truly step into biblical wealth wisdom, and to increase your financial peace.But there's a lot of nuance to get there, and many Christians never do.In this episode, Deryck Frye and Vince unpack why Christians struggle with strategic thinking when it comes to finances, why generosity also requires stewardship to be blessed, how money is used as a spiritual test, and more.Dive into this if you don't feel PEACE around your finances. As believers, we should!In this episode:0:00 Intro2:23 Owner vs. Manager8:35 Luke 1613:20 Selling the house17:18 Why Christians struggle with strategic thinking20:48 Generosity blessings require stewardship27:13 Money as a spiritual test30:34 Why doesn't money create more peace?38:10 Limiting beliefs that lead to poverty42:04 How to tell if money is serving you or ruling you?46:00 From financial anxiety to authorityResources:Weaponize Your Weakness by Deryck Frye: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FP59LCFV/Deryck Frye on IG: https://www.instagram.com/deryckfrye/Achilles Leadership on IG: https://www.instagram.com/achillesleadership/Connect Church: https://www.weconnect.cc/---
We live in a culture that stretches us to the very limits of our time, energy, and finances. Every hour gets booked, every dollar gets assigned, and before we know it, we're operating without room to breathe. Scripture calls that lack of space folly—and the presence of space wisdom. Today, we're talking about margin and why it's essential to biblical stewardship.Margin is the space between our limits and our load—the distance between what we could do and what we actually do. Proverbs 21:20 tells us, “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” Wise people don't consume everything they have. They create space. They build reserves. They plan ahead. The foolish run to the edges, spending and consuming as fast as resources arrive.One of Scripture's most beautiful pictures of margin appears in the story of Ruth. In Leviticus 23:22, God instructs His people not to harvest their fields all the way to the edges. They were to leave grain for the poor, the widow, and the foreigner. Boaz obeyed that command. He refused to maximize every inch of profit, and because of that simple act of obedience, Ruth and Naomi survived. Margin became the soil for redemption—leading to the lineage of King David, and ultimately, to Jesus Christ. Margin makes room for God to work.Think of a beautifully designed page. The words never run from edge to edge. The white space allows the page to breathe. Without it, the text would feel overwhelming. Our lives are the same. When we fill every minute of our schedules and every dollar of our budgets, life becomes chaotic. We lose clarity, rest, and the ability to respond to God's promptings.Financially, the absence of margin makes even small disruptions feel like emergencies. A car repair or medical bill can suddenly derail us. But margin absorbs shocks. It quiets anxiety. And it lays the groundwork for stewardship.Margin produces at least three spiritual benefits:Space for Rest. When we're not bound to every dollar, we can Sabbath—enjoying God's presence without pressure.Space for Faith. When we don't consume everything, we confess that God—not our paycheck—is our provider.Space for Generosity. Living at the edge leaves no room to say yes when God nudges us to give. Margin fuels ministry.Ultimately, margin is a spiritual discipline. It isn't just about saving money—it's about creating space for God's pace, God's provision, and God's purposes. The first step is simple to name and difficult to practice: spend less than you earn. Say no to good things so you can say yes to better things. Margin doesn't appear on its own—it's created through intentional choices.Boaz never imagined that leaving grain behind would shape the family line of the Messiah. But God often uses margin to accomplish eternal things.————————————————————————————————If you want to go deeper in learning how our stewardship makes room for God's work in our lives, our own Rob West wrote about this theme in his new 21-day devotional, Our Ultimate Treasure. It will be released next month. You can preorder or place bulk orders at FaithFi.com/Shop, and a digital version will be available soon in the FaithFi App for FaithFi Partners. I'd love for you to experience it.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I received a notice from my bank regarding an arbitration provision and class action waiver—specifically, a notice about resolving disputes through individual arbitration. I don't understand what that means or what happens if I opt out. I'm confused and unsure what to do.I'm a truck driver, and I'm 62. I've got a few years before retirement, and I'm starting to have a little extra money in my paycheck. I'd like to invest some of it, but I'm unsure about the current market conditions. I'm also curious about crypto and Bitcoin, and wanted to hear your take.I'm trying to organize several things I've inherited—stock, savings, an IRA, an annuity, a CD, an insurance inheritance, and a house. I'm almost 72, and my dad is 100 and still living, so I need to plan for possibly 30 more years. I work part-time and receive Social Security, and my husband, who is bed-bound, also receives Social Security. Overall, our income is about $9,000 per month, which we don't need right now. I want to know how to organize all of this wisely and plan for the long term.I have two adult children in their late 30s who still have a lot of student loan debt. I'd like to help pay it off, but most of my money is in retirement accounts—401(k), IRA, and Roth IRA. Is there any way to use that money without a big tax hit? Is there any option to reduce their debt through repayment programs? One child has federal loans, and the other is in forbearance, with interest accruing. I'd really like to see them free from this debt, but I'm not sure how to approach it.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind 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.
In this episode, our host and CEO, Ross Overline reflects on what Scholars of Finance built in 2025—and what 2026 demands from finance leaders in a rapidly changing world.Released on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, this episode starts with a question that sits at the heart of SOF's mission: What kind of society are we trying to build—and what responsibility does capital carry in it? From there, Ross shares a clear look back at SOF's growth in 2025—tripling leadership development for students and serving 4,000+ future finance leaders—before laying out SOF's 2026 theme: Adaptive Excellence.Episode Segments:Growth in 2025: A behind-the-scenes look at how SOF strengthened student formation, expanded chapter presence, and grew the community supporting principled finance leadership.2026: Adaptive Excellence in the Age of AI: A candid assessment of what's changing in finance—AI, automation, and rising competition—and what it means to stay both excellent and values-grounded. Ross shares how SOF will evolve curriculum, coaching, partnerships, and alumni support to keep members on the leading edge.Generosity as a Moral Requirement of Capitalism: Zooming out, Ross reflects on a fractured society and the growing tension between individualism and collectivism—drawing on MLK and Adam Smith to make a case for generosity as a form of moral leadership. The episode closes with a simple challenge: if excellence is rising, generosity must rise with it.Whether you're a student entering the industry, an alum navigating early career, or a senior leader shaping institutions, this episode is designed to re-anchor your year in character—and to raise the bar for what leadership in finance can look like.
Raised on a central Missouri farm, Kristin Hammett grew up in a family that loved Jesus and lived out steady generosity, even amid the financial uncertainties of farming life. Watching her parents faithfully give a tithe planted early seeds, but it was during college that she made a deeper commitment to Christ, a decision that quietly set the trajectory for everything that followed. After college, she entered a sales role with a Fortune 50 company, surrounded by benefits and success, yet she began to sense that God might be inviting her into something more than selling consumer goods. After a season as a stay-at-home mom, she discovered a growing desire to see how her professional skills might serve Kingdom purposes. That curiosity led her to become the first part time development director at a local pregnancy center, where God reshaped her understanding of fundraising as ministry, connecting donors to the doers and inviting people to join Him where He is already working. That journey eventually opened the door to joining The Signatry, helping donors steward all God has entrusted to them for Kingdom impact. As Vice President of Family Generosity Services at The Signatry, Kristin has spent her career helping families move from reactive giving to intentional stewardship rooted in faith. Drawing from deep experience on both the nonprofit and givers sides, she now guides families towards alignment, trust, and faithfulness in how they move towards intentional generosity together. Major Topics Include: Generosity as discipline, then joyful invitation Stewarding all assets, not just cash Fundraising as ministry and relationship Connecting donors and doers in God's work Evaluating impact above overhead in giving Understanding cause dynamics and realistic impact outcomes Trust and partnership between givers and ministries Thinking through non-cash gifts Alignment over agreement in family generosity QUOTES TO REMEMBER “God has all the resources that He needs to fund His work. My role is to connect the resources He's entrusted to people with the work He's already doing.” “Impact needs to come before overhead.” “If we're only asking people to give from cash, we're really not asking them to steward all that God has entrusted to them.” “Let's begin to change the conversation, not just about cash, but about all of their assets, and help them understand how those are an opportunity for generosity.” “When you realize you're connecting the donors and the doers, that's a pretty incredible place to be.” “You're not trying to get something from someone. You're inviting them to join God where He's already at work.” “In a family, alignment is much more important than agreement.” “If you want everyone to give to exactly what you want to give to, that's a top-down approach, and it rarely creates enthusiasm.” “If you hold it open-handed and prioritize alignment over agreement, you'll often find much more joy and engagement.” “Donors are operating in a currency of trust. That trusted partnership is absolutely critical.” “When there's a trusted partnership between the giver and the organization, God does something formative in both.” “Fundraising is ministry. Anytime you're engaging someone around their resources, their finances, and their heart, that's ministry.” “We need to dissolve the barrier between where the ministry happens and where the money comes in, and realize it's all ministry.” “God doesn't need our money. He wants our hearts. And that's really, at the end of the day, the message of generosity.” “Generosity is not just for the ultra high net worth or those making a lot of money, it's for everyone. God is not interested in the zeros. He's interested in obedience.” “We're stewarding our whole life, not just our financial resources, because He wants our heart.” LINKS FROM THE SHOW The Signatry (see our interviews with founder, Bill High, and CEO, Steve French here) Mission Increase National Christian Foundation (see our interview with President Emeritus, David Wills) The Giver and the Gift by Peter Greer & David Weekley (see our interview with author Peter Greer here) Family Generosity Guides Nonprofit blogs: Major Donor Insight: They are People, Too Engage Donors by Engaging Their Families The Finish Line Community Facebook Group The Finish Line Community LinkedIn Group BIBLE REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW Malachi 3:10 | Testing God in Giving Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need. Matthew 6:21 | Treasure and the Heart For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Psalm 50:10 | God Owns Everything For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. Philippians 4:15–19 | Giving as Partnership WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you have a thought about something you heard, or a story to share, please reach out! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also contact us directly from our contact page. If you want to engage with the Finish Line Community, check out our groups on Facebookand LinkedIn.
Part 3 of our Series Eternity Portfolio!
What happens when God draws unusually near? In this fiery message at Grace City Church during Church Camp, Russel Johnson from The Pursuit Church teaches from Acts 10 (Cornelius & Peter) and unpacks the signs of revival. If you've been praying for awakening, this is your call to respond—revival starts in a person (IN YOU), and it's time to raise the sails because the wind has begun to blow.Support the showThanks for listening! Go to www.StrongerManNation.com for more resources.
When the wins keep coming, but fulfillment fades, what's really missing? In this unforgettable episode, Mike welcomes Derek Strokon, CEO of Soul Summit Ventures, three-time international bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and philanthropic force, for a raw, inspiring conversation about redefining success and living with intention. Derek opens up about his journey from the high-pressure world of corporate finance and material excess to a life grounded in gratitude, service, and authentic connection. After downsizing from a 5,100-square-foot home, he discovered that less can truly become more…more impact, more meaning, and more fulfillment. At the heart of the conversation is Derek's powerful philosophy of "Hero Culture," sparked by a simple yet profound Halloween moment with his son. He also introduces the concept of "tipping time," a mindset shift that allows future goals to be accessed in the present, transforming how we think about success, time, and purpose. Woven throughout the episode are personal stories about family, fatherhood, and the role Derek's wife and children have played in keeping him grounded and aligned. His message is equal parts heart, wisdom, and action. This episode is a powerful reminder that true success isn't measured by what you accumulate, but by the lives you impact along the way. IN THIS EPISODE: ➡️SUCCESS REDEFINED: Trading material excess for purpose, gratitude, and meaningful impact ➡️HERO CULTURE IN ACTION: How everyday moments create leaders who give first ➡️THE TIPPING TIME MINDSET: Accessing future goals by serving others in the present ➡️PHILANTHROPY THAT SCALES: Building community funds that create real, local change
In Week 2 of our series “The Core,” we continue unpacking the values that shape who we are as Central Valley Church and how we live out our faith. This message focuses on Intercessory Prayer and Generosity, two core values that move us beyond a self-focused faith and align our hearts with God's heart for others. We explore: • What intercessory prayer is and why it's essential • How praying for others impacts spiritual growth and freedom • Why prayer is central to following Jesus • How generosity reflects the nature and character of God • What it looks like to live with open hands and an others-first mindset This teaching challenges us to deny ourselves, pick up our cross, and follow Jesus by living lives marked by prayer, generosity, and trust in God as our provider.
(Pali Canon Study Group) - Generosity - Volume 13 - (Chapter 71-80)Explore The Teachings of The Fully Perfectly Enlightened Buddha through "The Words of The Buddha" Book Series in the Pali Canon in English Study Group.To learn more about this program, visit this link:https://bit.ly/PaliCanonStudyGroupUsing The Words of The Buddha book series, this program is offered to guide you in learning and practicing The Teachings of The Buddha on The Path to Enlightenment.You can access The Words of The Buddha Books Series using this link.https://www.buddhadailywisdom.com/freebuddhabooksIn this Podcast, David will guide you in understanding the Pali Canon in English through The Words of The Buddha which will help you to learn, reflect, and practice The Teachings of Gotama Buddha on The Path to Enlightenment.——-Daily Wisdom - Walking The Path with The BuddhaDedicated to the education of Gotama Buddha's Teachings to attain Enlightenment.https://www.BuddhaDailyWisdom.com(See our website for online learning, courses, and retreats.)Group Learning Program - LIVE Interactive Online Classes, Book, Audiobook, Videos, Podcast and Personal Guidancehttps://mailchi.mp/f958c59262eb/buddhadailywisdomThe Words of The Buddha - Pali Canon in English Study Grouphttps://mailchi.mp/6bb4fdf2b6e0/palicanonstudyprogramFREE Book - Developing a Life Practice: The Path That Leads to Enlightenmenthttps://www.buddhadailywisdom.com/freebuddhabooksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/DailyWisdom999YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DailyWisdom999Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/buddhadailywisdom/Support our efforts to share The Teachings of Gotama Buddha with you and worldwide for all people using this link.https://www.buddhadailywisdom.com/supportbuddha#buddhism #learnbuddhism #enlightenment #dhamma #dharma #buddha #meditation #meditationretreat #meditationcourse
Biblical generosity begins not with money, but with God Himself – a God who is generous by nature and who created the world for His glory and our good. Because everything we have has been entrusted to us by God, we are not owners but stewards who are called to faithfulness, contentment, and trust rather than accumulation. Jesus taught often about money because our use of resources reveals our hearts. Believers are invited to invest their resources in God's work through joyful, intentional, and sacrificial giving, not under compulsion, but as an act of worship and spiritual maturity. At The Well, the ministry and mission of the local church are sustained entirely by the faithful generosity of individuals, handled with integrity and accountability. Generosity becomes a joyful response to grace as we participate in God's ongoing work in our church, our city, and the world. Speaker: Brad Bell
We must choose to practice biblical generosity, motivated by Christ's gracious example rather than mere agreement with its principles.
Biblical generosity begins not with money, but with God Himself – a God who is generous by nature and who created the world for His glory and our good. Because everything we have has been entrusted to us by God, we are not owners but stewards who are called to faithfulness, contentment, and trust rather than accumulation. Jesus taught often about money because our use of resources reveals our hearts. Believers are invited to invest their resources in God's work through joyful, intentional, and sacrificial giving, not under compulsion, but as an act of worship and spiritual maturity. At The Well, the ministry and mission of the local church are sustained entirely by the faithful generosity of individuals, handled with integrity and accountability. Generosity becomes a joyful response to grace as we participate in God's ongoing work in our church, our city, and the world. Speaker: Brad Bell
Living a generous life can feel risky when we worry about having enough for the future. However, true generosity is an attitude of the heart that invites us to trust God as our provider rather than relying on what is in our hands. Let's discover how to value the Provider more than the provision.Start the 90-Day Tithe Challenge today: https://form.church/TitheChallengeChapters:00:00 Intro00:34 The Generous Life01:49 The 90-Day Tithe Challenge03:53 Trusting God When Generosity Feels Risky05:34 Where Your Treasure Is08:12 The James Bond of Philanthropy12:03 A Matter of the Heart20:10 Generosity Demonstrates Trust in God23:25 Trusting the Provider29:32 Honoring God with FinancesTAKE A NEXT STEP:INTRODUCE YOURSELF
Generosity… in this economy?! Money might make things weird, but it also can make things beautiful. In our final week, we'll talk about generosity: what it is, what it isn't, and what it actually does to us (turns out, there's fascinating brain chemistry involved). In a world that treats generosity as foolish or unrealistic, we'll explore how this particular shade of green might be the one that frees us— not just spiritually, but practically, too.
Sunday, January 18, 2026"Generosity: Born Out of Grace" - Tyler TankersleySermon based on 2 Corinthians 8:1-15(reading by Sarah Greer)
The last 2 verses of today's chapter (19) in Matthew can be puzzling if we do not realize the chapter break is wrongly placed and the context includes the next chapter. The end of chapter 19 records Jesus as saying, “everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for my name's sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” The lesson Jesus is teaching becomes clear in his next words at the start of ch. 20. “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master … who went out early … to hire labourers for his vineyard … for a denarius a day” There follows the details of going out again at “the third hour … the sixth hour … the ninth hour … the eleventh hour.” In the evening payment is made “beginning at the first” [v.4] and they all receive the same payment (v.10) regardless of how long they have worked. Those who had “borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat” [v.12] complain. Verses 15 & 16 put the matter into focus from the divine point of view, “Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity? So the last will be first, and the first last.” The disciples are going to labour in the “scorching heat” of the day, this is a lesson for them. But beware of looking at the situation from the opposite perspective! Could we be tempted to think to ourselves, ‘As long as we get to the service on most Sundays, that is all I really have to do'? Look back at the first passage quoted above, Jesus says, “everyone who has left … for my name's sake will receive …” It evidently means, everyone who has given first consideration to me and the needs of my vineyard as they live their lives – and done things, according to their ability and opportunity (and this includes making opportunities) “will receive….” Let's put this alongside another saying of Jesus in Luke ch. 12. First note v. 37 “Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes” and then “everyone to whom much was given, of him (or her) much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.” [v.48] Much food for thought for us today – how much has been given to me – to you?.
We'd love to hear from you. What are your thoughts and questions?In this conversation, Rick Peck discusses the deeper meaning of philanthropy, emphasizing that true generosity is rooted in values and personal fulfillment rather than mere financial transactions. He shares insights on how to guide individuals and families in crafting intentional giving plans that align with their values and desired impact. The discussion also highlights the importance of collaboration among financial advisors, estate attorneys, and philanthropic advisors to create a holistic approach to philanthropy. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the significance of meaningful conversations and self-reflection in the journey of giving.Main Points:Generosity is about meaning, not just money.Fulfillment often comes from making an impact.Understanding personal values is crucial in philanthropy.Crafting a giving plan requires thoughtful reflection.Advisors should facilitate intentional conversations about values.Philanthropy involves a holistic ecosystem of support.The five T's of giving can enhance impact.It's important to know what impact looks like for you.Legacy planning should include family discussions.Meaningful conversations can strengthen generational bonds.Connect with Rick Peck:thephilanthropyguy@gmail.comhttps://www.thephilanthropyguy.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-peck/https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Philanthropy-Guy/61550822280346/#https://www.instagram.com/rick_peck_the_philanthropy_guy/https://www.youtube.com/@ThePhilanthropyGuy
What if stewardship is not about money at all but about how you live?In this deeply moving episode of Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations, Tobi sits down with Larry O'Nan, a global leader in faith-based leadership and the author of Intentional Living and Giving. With more than five decades of experience empowering Christian leaders worldwide, Larry reveals the spiritual shift that changed everything for him in 1972 and why it still matters today.This conversation goes far beyond fundraising. It explores lifestyle stewardship, grief, generosity, risk, and what it truly means to become an Authorised Wealth Distributor in a world driven by fear and scarcity.Larry shares how losing his wife of 45 years reshaped his understanding of purpose, how biblical stewardship is woven throughout Scripture, and why many believers unknowingly live beneath their spiritual inheritance.This episode is a wake-up call for anyone who feels stuck, sidelined, or disconnected from their deeper calling.You were not born again to survive.You were born again to thrive.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Intentional Living07:19 Heartbreak and Resilience07:43 The Turning Point in 197221:51 Understanding Lifestyle Stewardship33:21 Becoming an Authorised Wealth Distributor38:01 Navigating Life's Curves and Disappointments42:36 The Spirit of Generosity and Wealth Distribution48:11 Making Prudent Stewardship Decisions54:34 Becoming an Authorised Wealth DistributorWhat You Will Discover in This Episode• Why intentional living is the foundation of a fulfilled life• How lifestyle stewardship changes the way you see money, time, and purpose• The difference between prosperity thinking and biblical stewardship• How grief can become a doorway into deeper calling• What it means to be an Authorised Wealth Distributor• How generosity unlocks freedom and joy• Why fear and confusion keep so many believers trapped• How to align your faith with practical daily stewardshipPowerful Quotes“Pain is gold.”“Life is not lived in Disneyland.”“I want to bless somebody else.”“You were born again to thrive.”About Larry O'NanLarry O'Nan is a globally respected leader in intentional living and lifestyle stewardship. With more than 50 years of experience serving Christian ministries around the world, he has helped redefine how faith-based organisations understand generosity, leadership, and spiritual responsibility.He is the author of Intentional Living and Giving and the creator of the Authorised Wealth Distributor framework, helping believers see themselves not as owners, but as stewards entrusted with God's resources.Website: https://larryonan.comYour transformation begins the moment you decide to look within.Let this book walk with you.
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We would love to hear from you! Please send us your comments here. --------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.