Podcasts about Generous

Beginnings | Week 3 Our Abundantly Generous Creator August 31, 2025 Pastor Ben Bufkin 00:00 The Lord shapes and fills what is dark and empty 24:56 The Lord generously provides for and blesses his image bearers

Today, we look at one of Jesus' more unpopular parables - the Laborers in the Vineyard. It is quite unpopular because the landowner does not give some laborers what they think they rightfully have coming to them. Join us as we study what this teaches us today.

It's one of our favorite times of the year here at Avenue, our "Be Generous" campaign is getting started and today we're locked in and excited to share some stories about generosity!

Behind every action is a value—and for us as a church, one of those values is this: We Are Generous.This week, Pastor Gregg unpacks the biblical principle of giving our first and best to God, showing that generosity is not about law but about love, trust, and mission. From Abel's offering to the early church in Acts, to God giving His own Son as the firstfruits of resurrection, this message reminds us that we are never more like God than when we give.Subscribe to stay up to date with what God is doing at Creekside Church!Website: https://creekside.churchInstagram: creeksidechurchnp

Sunday Sermon 8/24/25 -- Rev. Billy Boyce

Generosity isn't just something we do—it's who we are. Paul reminds us that generosity is a mindset and an attitude that shapes how we live, give, and trust God. In this message, we explore what it means to store up treasures in heaven, live with an abundance mindset, and practice generosity that is willing, proportional, and sacrificial. Discover how the ministry of giving leads to joy, freedom, and a life abounding in Jesus.

Leadership transformed through the power of giving – this is the core of our conversation with Joe Davis, former head of North America for Boston Consulting Group and author of The Generous Leader. With 37 years of leadership experience, Davis challenges the old command-and-control model and shows how generosity unlocks greater outcomes. As he puts it, "Leadership isn't about yourself, but about unlocking the capabilities of those with whom you work."His philosophy is built on seven pillars: connecting personally, listening generously, showing vulnerability, practicing inclusivity, serving as an ally, developing others, and recognizing contributions. Vulnerability, in particular, proves powerful. Davis notes, "I think 'I don't know' are three of the most powerful words any leader can use." Rather than weakening authority, honesty builds trust and sparks team creativity.The discussion also turns practical with lessons on timely, specific feedback. Davis recalls failing early in his career by saving feedback until year-end reviews, learning instead that coaching must be ongoing. Whether you lead a team or an entire organization, this episode offers actionable ways to elevate your impact through generosity. Which of the seven will you focus on first?

Watch this sermon on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/r0xhpdSXvuM

In this engaging episode of the Exceptional Sales Leader podcast, I am joined by Joe Davis, a veteran in leadership with a rich history at the Boston Consulting Group. Broadcasting from Minnesota, Joe shares his vast experience, reflecting on his journey from a young sales rep to a senior partner. The discussion traverses Joe's transition and the evolution of leadership, touching on the concepts highlighted in his book "The Generous Leader." Among these concepts, Joe underscores the importance of being a generous leader, focusing on genuine feedback, mentoring, and fostering inclusive environments. The conversation dives deep into the transformative aspects of leadership, particularly in today's evolving corporate world. Joe emphasises the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, advocating for leaders to be transparent and approachable. Using anecdotes from his career, he explains how these characteristics can forge stronger teams and drive performance. The episode is an insightful exploration of effective leadership strategies, showcasing Joe's philosophy that nurturing the potential in others is essential for achieving success. To connect with Joe and to learn more about what he does, including grabbing a copy of his book, "The Generous Leader", please go to: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joedavis1313/ Website - https://www.joedavis.com/

When a lawyer seeks to justify himself by loving God with his entire being and his neighbor as himself, he asks Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus tells of a Jewish man who travels from Jerusalem down to Jericho. The man was robbed, stripped, beaten, and left for dead by thugs. A Jewish priest and a Levite both see him yet pass by on the other side of the road. However, a Samaritan responds to him with compassion; he dresses his wounds, sets him on his own animal, brings him to an inn, and takes care of him that evening. The next day he gives the innkeeper two days of wages to tend him and offers to cover any additional expenses. This man proves to be his neighbor, and Jesus tells the lawyer, “Go and do likewise.” Jesus' parable and charge to be this kind of neighbor to anyone exemplifies a generous responder. Generous responders purposefully live out their God-given calling and use everything they have to bless people around them. Jesus' entire life from human conception to cross, grave, resurrection, ascension, and Pentecost can be summed up as THE Generous Responder.

Church was never meant to be a place you to — it's who you are! In this series, we are pulling back the curtain on what it really means to follow Jesus! Because faith isn't about filling a seat for an hour on Sunday — it's not about attendance, it's about action. It's not about a building, it's about who we are becoming. It's time to move from sitting to serving, from watching to walking it out! So let's stop GOING to church — and let's start BEING the church! • Westbridge Church is people helping people FIND and FOLLOW JESUS! We believe that no matter where you are in your faith, there's always a next step you can take to grow in your relationship with God. As a church, we are committed to continually growing and encouraging others to grow in their faith, connect in community, share God's grace, serve others, live generously, and have serious fun along the way. Learn more: https://westbridgechurch.com/ Connect with us: https://linktr.ee/westbridgechurchmn Current worship: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2lpxmpwwtzhkeebpp8frhihttp://spotify.com/playlist/2lpxmpwwtzhkeebpp8frhi

This week, we're taking the stress out of back-to-school cooking with food that's fast, fun, and full of flavor. First, we talk with Peter J. Kim, author of Instant Ramen Kitchen, about transforming those humble packets you associate with college kids into surprisingly elegant meals. Peter shares why instant ramen deserves a spot in your pantry and leaves us with his recipe for Aglio e Olio. Then, we catch up with chef David Nayfeld and his approach to quick, comforting meals. Known for his acclaimed restaurant Che Fico in San Francisco, David opens up about learning to cook for (and with) his daughter as a single dad. His new book, Dad, What's for Dinner?, features kid-friendly recipes like the one he shared with us: Zucchini Parmigiana. Broadcast dates for this episode: August 22, 2025 (originally aired)Generous listeners like you make The Splendid Table possible. Donate today to support the show. 

This is part six of an eight-part series on the energetics of the days of the week, and today we're hookin' our wagons to Jupiter. Thursday is ruled by Jupiter—expansive, abundant, lucky (if there is such a thing). Jupiter energy is about vastness, generosity, and selflessness. When we honour Thursday's expansive power, we can use it to teach, to reach out, to be generous—and more wisdom and abundance flows in. The Life Area that pairs with Thursdays is Mind + Emotions. This is the day to think higher thoughts, to neutralize emotions, to focus on learning, sharing wisdom, and expanding through service. Expansion energy in action. The key to working with Thursday's Jupiter vibe? Selflessness.  Expansion happens more naturally when we focus on serving others. When you come from a place of seva—of loving service—the abundance flows back to you naturally. Generous people always have more to give. In this episode:  Why Jupiter makes Thursday the day of abundance and expansion The Life Area of Mind + Emotions and how to work with it The best activities to schedule on Thursdays How Team D uses Jupiter's expansive energy for classes, workshops and live events MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The 2026 Centered Planner VIP List—available exclusively through presale starting Sunday, August 24! GetHeartCentered.com—Download the FREE Astro + Events calendar and sync your plans with the planets Follow + Subscribe to With Love, Danielle on Substack for weekly essays + more Join the Centered Collective Energetics of the Days of the Week—catch up on the series! Part 1: Mercury Retrograde Part 2: Sunday, The Soul's Day  Part 3: Monday, The Moon's Day Part 4: Tuesdays are for getting sh*t done Part 5: Forget Hump Day—On Wednesdays We Play  

Geoff discusses the creation of “OPEN REBELLION” and the story behind the song. Streaming everywhere Friday, August 29th! https://youtu.be/7CEwOdB3hdl Support the music: Cash App Venmo Buy Me A Coffee Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube

When life gets expensive, generosity can feel optional. But God's generosity toward us didn't come when it was easy or convenient — and we can trust that when we give, He multiplies our blessings.

Door-to-door sales can be awkward. So is Paul's ask in 2 Corinthians 8. But underneath the awkwardness is a radical vision of generosity that still changes lives. Join us this Sunday as we explore a generous faith.Sermon Series: Faith for the Next StepFaith isn't always a leap—it's often a next step.Whether you're standing firm, stumbling forward, or searching for your footing, God meets you where you are. In this 10-week series, we'll explore stories of faith in motion—active, growing, persistent, and courageous. Wherever you are on the path, there's a next step. Let's take it together.Sermon preached by Dallas Flippin, on Sunday, August 17, 2025 at the First Baptist Church of Jackson, MI.Connect with FBC JXNLearn more about FBCJXN at https://fbcjxn.org.Follow us on Facebook at https://facebook.com/fbcjxn.Follow us on Instagram at http://instagram.com/fbcjxn.Want to connect more with us, fill out our virtual connect card at https://www.fbcjxn.org/connect/How can we pray for you? Let us know at https://www.fbcjxn.org/prayer/

Minnesota is one of the most generous states in the nation when it comes to welfare payments. Omar Fateh holds rally last night, give a listen. Is the State Fair losing it's grip on the state of Minnesota. Johnny Heidt with guitar news. Heard On The Show:Minnesota suing TikTok for ‘preying on young people,' causing harmDNR fish pond stocked and ready for Minnesota State FairDespite a flurry of meetings on Russia's war in Ukraine, major obstacles to peace remainSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A sermon on John 3:16. Speaker: David Snyder

Giving isn't an obligation—it's an invitation into joy, freedom, and abundance! In this message from 2 Corinthians 8–9, we explore what it means to move from living in an empty mindset to abounding in God's provision through joyful obedience and generosity. Discover how every gift—of encouragement, compassion, resources, or finances—becomes a seed that God multiplies for His Kingdom. Wherever you are on the journey, take the next step of faith and experience the life God has designed for you: a life overflowing with His goodness.

Matthew 20:1-16 

Forgiveness isn't easy—and it doesn't mean forgetting. But it does mean releasing. When we hold on to past hurts, we carry a weight God never intended for us to bear. The story of Jacob and Esau reminds us that reconciliation doesn't come by following toxic scripts or clinging to old identities. Jacob had to wrestle with God and be renamed Israel before he could face his brother. In the same way, we must let God define our identity, not our pain or our past.

What if your next act of generosity could transform not just someone else's life, but your own? That's exactly what happened when a simple meal bought for a homeless man became a divine appointment that changed everything.God's heart for the poor isn't a minor theme in Scripture—it's emphasized in over 2,000 verses, far more than faith or prayer. Yet many of us struggle to understand how this applies to our comfortable modern lives. Through the powerful parable of the rich fool, Jesus challenges our culture's definition of success. This man, who built bigger barns to store his wealth and planned to "take life easy," is called a fool by Jesus. The villain in Jesus' story is our culture's hero.What drives our relationship with money? For many, especially those who grew up with scarcity, it's not greed but fear—fear of not having enough, fear of poverty, fear of disaster. Jesus offers a radically different perspective: "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom." This abundance mindset transformed the early church into a community where "there were no needy persons among them."The early Christians practiced regular, intentional generosity toward those in need—not just with money but with time and relationship. This "financial promiscuity," as Tim Keller called it, created a revolutionary community in a Roman world where no moral values encouraged the rich to share with the poor.How do we practice this kind of generosity when the poor are often invisible in our comfortable neighborhoods? Those in need are not objects of pity or projects to manage—they're brothers and sisters in Christ. Our goal isn't just to give resources but to create a new kind of family that blurs the lines between giver and receiver.Support the showMade a decision to follow Jesus? We want to know about it! Fill out our connect card here: https://local.churchcenter.com/people/forms/115766Thank you for your generosity. For information on how to give, visit https://localvineyard.church/give.

Teaching from James 1:5-8, by Dr Zach Kilpatrick.

If we are to be more like Jesus, we need to cultivate a generous mindset. What does it mean to have a generous mindset? How does it impact our decision-making, how we show up, and our faith? In this sermon, Bill Johnson shares a fundamental message, teaching on the generous mindset. Generosity reaches far past our finances; it's a heart posture. Living from this perspective and seeing through the lens of generosity, impacts everything that we think, say, and do. What's possible when God sees our lives and sees someone He can trust? We pray that as you listen along, your heart is stirred for the abundance found in the mindset God has made available for you.

Jim Elliot once wrote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”“Generous” might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think about pro athletes, but Kirk Cousins is rewriting that playbook. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback in the NFL is using his platform—and resources—for eternal impact. Today, we'll hear how his faith shapes everything from football to finances.Kirk Cousins is the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons and a veteran leader in the National Football League (NFL). He previously spent six seasons with the Washington Commanders and six with the Minnesota Vikings. A four-time Pro Bowler and outspoken man of faith, he is also the cofounder of the Julie & Kirk Cousins Foundation, which supports families and youth through faith-based initiatives.A Legacy of Generosity: Lessons from His ParentsGrowing up as a pastor's kid, Cousins remembers how his parents modeled generosity long before he had a bank account of his own.“My mom had the gift of hospitality,” he says. “Even when I didn't think I needed money, she'd hand me two twenties before I went out with friends. There was just this open-handedness.”While his dad managed the family finances with intentionality, it was his mother's willingness to give freely that left the deepest mark. “It was caught, not just taught,” Cousins reflects, emphasizing how their example shaped his understanding of stewardship early on.From Minimum Wage to Signing Bonuses: A Crash Course in StewardshipWhen Cousins was drafted into the NFL, his first check—a six-figure signing bonus—was a wake-up call.“As a college kid who had never earned more than minimum wage, I didn't know what to do,” he recalls. “I called my dad, and he said, ‘I don't know either!'”That moment marked the beginning of a stewardship journey—one that included learning to give, save, and live below his means in a world of excess. It wasn't easy, especially when surrounded by peers embracing a more lavish lifestyle. But Cousins understood that as an athlete, his income had a shorter runway.“You're approaching a cliff,” he says. “So it's scary to give when your career has an end date. But that's where faith comes in—trusting that God will provide beyond your own earning power.”It would be easy, Cousins admits, to treat financial obedience like a checklist—give, save, repeat. But biblical stewardship isn't about rules; it's about surrender.“I've done that—just checked the boxes. But that's not the abundant life Jesus promises. It's not religion, it's relationship.”He points to Jesus' parable of the treasure in the field (Matt. 13:44): “Once you see Jesus as the treasure, everything else becomes a logical response. Of course you'd sell everything to have Him. Stewardship flows from seeing Him clearly.”When Faith Feels Risky: Giving on a Diminishing TimelineThe tension for Cousins lies in balancing the enjoyment of God's provision with wisdom about the future.“I actually enjoy those moments that require more faith. When I give, and I don't know what's next, it puts the pressure back on God—where it belongs.”But he's quick to acknowledge the gray areas. “What's wise versus what's excessive? There's no formula. You have to walk with God and ask for His guidance daily.”One of the most valuable pieces of advice Kirk received early in his career came from a generous mentor: “Always give in unity with your wife.”That advice stuck.“When Julie isn't comfortable, I pause and pray. Her perspective might be the Holy Spirit speaking. Giving together strengthens our marriage and our stewardship.”Cousins sees their giving not only as a financial decision, but as a spiritual discipline of unity and trust.Planning for the Future: Wisdom Before WealthAs parents to young boys, Kirk and Julie have also had to consider how best to plan their estate. They've established a family office to prepare for the future—but with a strong desire to pass on wisdom before wealth.“We want to get to the end of our lives and say: the wisest hands to put this in are our kids'. But we also want to be realistic. If it wouldn't be wise to pass along wealth, we want our plan to reflect that.”Much of their estate will also go to their foundation, which they hope will be spent down soon after their passing. “We don't want it to live on in perpetuity with intentions we never had. We want to make an impact now.”So, where is Kirk Cousins most excited to give right now? The answer goes back to his roots.“I went to a Christian high school—Holland Christian—and it profoundly impacted my life. I want to make it more affordable for other families, support teachers, and strengthen Christian education.”It's a full-circle moment: a public school kid transformed by Christian community, now investing in the same kind of life-shaping environments for others.Final Whistle: A Life Well StewardedKirk Cousins is more than an NFL quarterback. He's a husband, father, and faithful steward who is using his influence to glorify God—not just in the end zone, but in the quiet decisions of budgeting, giving, and planning for the future.His story reminds us: Stewardship is not about how much we have—it's about how faithfully we respond to the One who gave it all.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own my home outright and keep hearing about home title protection services. How real is the risk of title fraud, and should I be concerned?I have rental properties in Arkansas, but my kids in California don't want them. I'm worried that when I pass, they'll sell them quickly for way less than they're worth. Should I go ahead and sell them now and put the money in a trust for my grandkids' education—or is there a better option?”Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Julie & Kirk Cousins FoundationWisdom 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) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

Jim Elliot once wrote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” “Generous” might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think about pro athletes, but Kirk Cousins is rewriting that playbook. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback in the NFL is using his platform —and resources—for eternal impact. On the next Faith & Finance Live with Rob West, discover how Kirk’s faith shapes everything from football to finances. Then, Rob addresses your calls and questions. 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.

We have an internal fairness scale that measures that. And it is true in in life too. That is why I suppose that we have higher standards for those who hold higher places in office. Especially the way we we regard our politicians, we have high expectations for them. Regardless of what party they are in, we have a certain sense of violation when they do not hold up their highest standards. We feel like they are not doing what we expect. (Read more…)And speaking of gratitude, I am grateful to have had a few weeks away on vacation and it was great. I needed the rest. But it is so great to be back home among friends and celebrating Mass with everyone.So here is my homily email from the Nineteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time. Please feel free to share this email with others.

Ben Lindbergh and Meg Rowley banter about a few of this year's WAR leaders dropping off their previous paces, Dave Roberts' critiques of Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers' playoff pitching, Clayton Kershaw vs. Max Scherzer, Justin Verlander's self-deception, the early hot streaks of Luke Keaschall and Warming Bernabel, Carlos Correa returning to form as an Astro, […]

Rich generous husband, any day everyday!

Wednesday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

God's generosity frees us to be generous to others...

What the world calls insurance, we call Christian love in action.Does your love go deeper than words? Have you ever noticed the need of one of your brothers or sisters in Christ, and then given sacrificially to help meet that need? I hope so because there are special blessings for generously contributing to the needs of the saints. Join me for today's Daily Word & Prayer to learn more.If you've not read my book, Takin' it to Their Turf. request a copy on my website, www.CampusAmerica.com.You'll be inspired, encouraged, and learn plenty about evangelism and spiritual warfare through the 70+ stories I share of my campus evangelism experiences.We send a copy to anyone who donates to our ministry, but if you can't do so, simply request a copy by sending us an email. Who do you know that needs to hear today's message? Go ahead and forward this to them, along with a prayer that God will use it in their life.To find Tom on Instagram, Facebook, TiKTok, and elsewhere, go to linktr.ee/tomthepreacher To support Tom Short Campus Ministries, click herehttps://www.tomthepreacher.com/support************ Do you want to have all your sins forgiven and know God personally? *********Check out my video "The Bridge Diagram" at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0Kjwrlind8&t=1sCheck out my website, www.CampusAmerica.com, to learn more about my ministry and sign up for my daily email. And make sure to request a copy of my book, Takin' it to Their Turf, when you visit my website.Check out my videos on this channel to learn how to answer tough questions challenging our faith.

God's generosity frees us to be generous to others...

Thanks for listening and if you enjoy this message please share with a friend and let us know by giving us a rating. You can find more information about New Hope at newhopechurch.tv and follow us on Instagram @newhopechurchtv If you need prayer or have made a decision today please visit newhopechurch.tv/prayer You can also watch our sermons at youtube.com/NHChurch

Joel Fitzpatrick. Luke 18:9-17.

Righteous Judge, Generous Father: Scripture Reflection for August 11, 2025 by Priests for Life

Fr Scott Berg Genesis 15:1-6Psalm 33:10-21Hebrews 11:1-16Luke 12:32-40

Generous giving flows from a satisfied heart.

Generous giving flows from a sa5sfied heart.

Introduction: 3 Self-Serving Reasons to Give to God (Matthew 6:19–24): So I Have TREASURE FOREVER . (Matt 6:19–21) So I Am ABLE to SEE . (Matt 6:22–23) So I Serve the RIGHT MASTER . (Matt 6:24) 1 Timothy 6:10 – For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Small Group DiscussionRead Matthew 6:19-24What was your big take-away from this passage / message?Re-read Matt 6:22-23. Explain this in your own words. What does this have to do with money, and how does generosity affect spiritual perception?Is it wrong to be motivated by self-serving reasons to give to God? Why or why not?BreakoutPray for one another. AUDIO TRANSCRIPT Open up your Bibles with me please to Matthew chapter 6.Some time ago, I was at the funeral home for a visitation.And as I was leaving, there was a woman standing kind of in the lobby by the exit door.And she asked what my connection was to the deceased.And I said, "Well, I'm a pastor and I've known the family for quite a while."And she says, "Oh, you're a pastor."She said, "What do you think about what Joel Osteen makes?"You know, that's not really the time or the place to engage in a heated debate.I said, "What Joel Osteen makes is really none of my business."She goes, "Well, of course it is."I said, "Why?"I said, "What he makes and what he does with his money, it's not my business."And she goes, "Well, it absolutely is."And I said, "Well, man, with all due respect, if you don't appreciate his ministry, then don't give him money."But I walked out of there just sort of confused again as to why we are so concerned with what other people do with their money.When biblically, who should I be concerned about?Point to the person that you should be concerned about, right here.Right?And we're going through the Sermon on the Mount.In the last section we looked at Jesus, talked about giving and praying and fasting.And those are all the elements of our private spiritual life.But you know, you've got to deal with the world sometime, right?You've got to get out there.And this next section of the Sermon on the Mount is about that.How do we deal with the world?What is the heart towards the world?And today we're going to talk about money.And oh, I think we knew it had to come up in the Sermon on the Mount eventually.Like, well, if it's such a big deal, why didn't it come up sooner?Because Jesus has been going after our hearts, and when your heart is right, and only whenyour heart is right, will your view and use of money also be right.Look at, I just want to start, look at verse 20, just the first part here.This is absolutely astounding.Jesus says, "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven."Just stop there for a second.That is absolutely astounding what He said.Right there, two things.Two things just blow me away about even that little part of the verse.It just blows me away.The first thing that blows me away is the fact that I can even put treasure in heaven.It's astounding that I have the ability to put stuff in heaven.But I got to tell you this past week, there's another little phrase in there that reallyjumped out at me.And it was the phrase, "For yourselves."So this treasure in heaven, who's it for?It's for me.This is going to benefit me.And you might be shocked to find out this morning that when you look in this sectionabout what Jesus says about money, there is a self-serving motive.Actually there are three self-serving motives at play.You know, we talked about money last fall.We had a whole series.What was that, Pastor in October?It was called "Right on the Money."Within that series, we talked about how to lay up treasure in heaven.Quick review, we said you got to give to God intentionally, willingly, and cheerfully.That's what the Bible says.That's how you lay up treasure in heaven.But here in this passage we're looking at today, Jesus doesn't talk about how.Okay, clearly here you're going to see that Jesus talks about why we should lay up treasurein heaven.And the why is for us.You know, after that sermon series last fall, oh, I preached my little heart out.What does God say about giving?Do you know what happened after that series?Giving went down in the church.I don't get it.I don't understand how we can see clear teaching from God's Word about money and we just thumbour nose at God and say, "Pshh, I'll show you, I'll give less."I don't understand that.You know, my wife, Erin, has a friend out of state that works in finance in her church.And she was sharing with Erin that every time my pastor preaches about tithing, giving goesdown.I don't get it.I just don't understand it.I just don't understand.You know, God says, "Everything is mine.I'm going to give some to you because I love you and as an act of love and worship, I wantyou to give back to me.And if you do, I will give you even more."And we listen to that and we go, "Nah."That's not for me.Well, I want to encourage you and the Lord to really change your mind about that becausehere in this passage, Jesus gives us why.And if you believe, you will be the beneficiary of giving.All right?So on your outline, I want you to write some things down.Here's three self-serving reasons to give to God.Very clear in the passage, self-serving reasons to give to God.Number one, write this down, "So I have treasure forever."So I have treasure forever.Look at the first part of 19, again, first part of 20.And Jesus says, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth."But, verse 20, "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven."Do you see there's a two-fold command there, right?Not hard.It's negative and it's positive.And then Jesus goes on to give the reason behind each of these commands.So let's take a look at them first.We have a negative.All right?Look at verse 19, the negative."Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy and wherethieves break in and steal."Like what's treasure on earth?You know what treasure on earth is, right?Money, houses, cars, stuff, all of the above.Jesus is just simply saying, "Do not live your life accumulating for here."Like, why not?Jesus says, "How about common sense?"Because you know it all goes away eventually.It all goes away.Notice Jesus talks about moth and rust and thieves.Those weren't three arbitrary things our Lord just pulled out of the air.The reason He said those three things is because in those days you measured wealth by threethings.You measured wealth, first of all, by how many clothes you had.I know that sounds strange to us, but go to some other parts of the world.They measured wealth by how many clothes they had.They also measured wealth by how much food they had stored.Again, that's kind of lost on us in our culture, but in that culture, especially in that day,you were extremely wealthy if you had food in storage.And obviously, wealth was measured by gold, right?So now we understand maybe a little more why Jesus selects those three images, right?Moths.Moths speaks to clothes.You know something interesting about moths?Them dusty little butterflies.They only eat what's stored.Did you notice that?Moths typically don't eat what you're wearing.They eat what's stored.Oh, and it's kind of the same thing with food, right?When Jesus says rust, that's not a great translation of the word.The word literally in the Greek means eating.What happens to stored food over time?The varmints find it, don't they?The mice, the bugs, they find their way to it when you store it.And then obviously thieves, gold breaking into houses.In those days, people often bury their treasure in the ground.It was nothing for a thief to watch to see where somebody buried something and then goback later and dig it up, right?So despite mothballs, mousetraps, motion lights, Jesus here is saying very simply the stuffthat you stockpile can and will be gone in a second, right?It's like a flower.If I pick you a beautiful flower, it's beautiful when I pick it.But you realize over time, a very short amount of time, that flower is going to wither awayand turn to dust.And here Jesus is saying, oh, that's everything on earth that you try to hold onto.Now look, it's not sinful to have stuff.If we've learned anything from the Sermon on the Mount, what we've learned is it'sall about the motive of your heart.And if your motive is to accumulate for yourself, you're greedy and you're foolish.That is what your story will lose eventually.Unless you store it in heaven, because look at verse 20, Jesus says, "But lay up for yourselvestreasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not breakin and steal."Like well what is treasure in heaven?We talked about this in our series last fall.I'm going to give you a quick review.Here's what we said, still true.What is treasure in heaven?I don't think God's Word is very specific on what that is, because I think it's somethingthat we wouldn't understand fully.But there's a lot that we know about it.We do know that it's eternal, and it's better than stuff on earth.We know that.We do know that believers will have treasure based on what we've done with our resourceshere on the earth.Now to be clear, Pastor Taylor talked about this.Salvation is entirely based on the work of Jesus Christ.Let's be clear about that.Jesus Christ through His death and His resurrection provided salvation to those who will turnfrom their sin and receive Him.It's all based on His work.But treasure or rewards are based on our works, and in heaven there will be different levelsof rewards.Another thing we do know is there's no second chance for believers to earn rewards afterwe die.Basically this life on the earth right now is your chance to earn rewards.I'm talking so much about the heart through this series on the Sermon and the Mount.So when we get to this section, the question is, where is your heart?While Jesus tells us objectively, in case you're still wondering where your heart reallyis, do you want to know where your heart really is?You might think you know where it is.Jesus tells us exactly where it actually is.Look at verse 21, Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."Your heart is wherever you put your treasure.In other words, look at how you spend your money, and that will tell you where your heartis.So if you come to me and you say, "Oh, you know what, Pastor Jeff, my heart's with thechurch.Oh, I just have a heart for this church.I just love this church so much.My heart is with the church."How much money do you give to the church?And you're like, "Well, I don't really give that much to the church."Well, then your heart's not with the church, according to Jesus.According to Jesus, you've deceived yourself into thinking your heart's with the church,but if your money isn't invested in the church, then your heart's not in the church.All right?Or if you're like, "Oh, Pastor Jeff, you know where my heart is, my heart of hearts.You know where my heart is?My heart's for missions.Oh, I see these pictures of Barnabas and I hear about these people going on these missiontrips.I just have, Pastor Jeff, I have such a heart for missions."Do you give to missions?Well, no, I don't really give to missions.Well, then your heart's not in missions, according to Jesus, that is.Like, well, maybe I'm not sure where my heart is.If you're struggling with that, I'll be glad to help you.What I need you to do is print out your bank statement, make an appointment, and we'llsit down and go through it.And I will show you very clearly where your heart is, because according to Jesus, whereyou put your treasure is where your heart ends up.Your heart follows your investments.You're either investing in the kingdom of God, or you're investing in stuff that you'reeventually going to lose.And if you're sitting here like, "Man, you know what?I really want my heart to be on the things of God."Or then invest in the things of God.Give to the things of God, and you will find that your heart will follow your investments.Your heart will be in heaven.And according to Jesus, you're going to have treasure that you'll enjoy for eternity.It's a pretty good self-serving motive for giving to God.Second one, right?This self-serving reason to give to God.So I'm able to see.So I'm able to see.Like, wait, wait, wait.That's what He says.Look at verses 22 and 23.Jesus says, "The eye is the lamp of the body."So if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light.But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness.If then the light in you is darkness, how great is that darkness?You're like, "Well, that's an unrelated tangent.We're talking about money."And all of a sudden, we're talking about eyesight.It's not an unrelated tangent at all.Jesus here is giving us another self-centered reason to give to God.And this is what I'm going to tell you what it is, and I'm going to explain it.Listen, only people who truly understand and obey what God says about money are able tosee things as they really are.Like, well, what do you mean?Jesus here is giving an illustration.The eye here illustrates the heart.And Jesus says the eye is like a lamp.And everything that we see, what we perceive and fill ourselves with is light.Okay?So look at verse 22 again.Jesus says the eye is the lamp of the body.So if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light.Now that word healthy in the Greek literally is the word generous.Literally that's what the word means.If your eye is generous.So Jesus is saying that if your heart is generous, your whole life is going to be filled withlight.In other words, your whole life is going to be filled with spiritual understanding.In other words, Jesus is saying that only generous people see things as they really are.It's only generous people who say everything is God's.I'm just a steward of God's stuff.In my office on the conference table, there's a big glass bowl and it's full of lollipops.This happens all the time.It literally just happened this morning where a little kid will come in and Pastor Jeff,can I have a lollipop?Absolutely you can.And they'll take a lollipop and they'll leave.This happens all the time.And about 10 or 15 seconds later, they come back in and they say, I need to get one forJoey.I need to get one for Mikey.I need to get one for Stacy.And they start and then they walk out with these handfuls of lollipops.Doesn't bother me at all because they're illustrating a very important biblical point.And that's this.I say it all the time.I'm like, you're awfully generous with something that's not yours.That's biblical.You want to learn how to be generous?It's not yours.Everything on this earth is a bowl of lollipops.It's all God's.So it's a lot easier to be generous with it when I realize it's not mine.I don't need to hold on to it.So I'm getting one for Mikey.Generous people see things as they really are.Generous people say things like, giving is worship.So I'm joyfully giving God first and best.Right?I'm not going to see how much money I have left after I buy all my toys and I'll giveGod a tenth of that and pat myself on the back for tithing.That isn't tithing and that's certainly not worship.Tithing worshipfully is when you receive, you say, okay, God gets first and God getsbest.That's worship.Some of you are like, yeah, I'm on board with that.Why doesn't everyone get that?Because of verse 23."But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness.And if then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness?"Some people don't get it because they're in the dark.Some people are just clueless because they can't see it because they can't see anything.Listen, when your heart is focused on the treasures of the earth accumulating for yourself,the blinds come down on spiritual perception.You are unable to see things spiritually.You know, some people go to church for years.Some people have been coming to this church for years and they do not change.They're still struggling with the same sin that they were struggling with two years ago,five years ago.Why?Because they can't see how great is the darkness.Some people have been coming to church for years and they don't grow.They're spiritually dull.At this point, they should be back teaching the kids.They should be leading a small group at this point.They should be in the preaching class, but they can't.They're spiritually dull.Why?They can't see.How great is the darkness?Some people never witness, never share Christ with anybody.Even talk about witnessing like, "Well, that's not for me."Why?They can't see.How great is the darkness?They come to church and they're like, "Well, worship is boring.The sermon wasn't for me.The prayer was too long."How great is the darkness?When your heart is purely focused on earth's treasures, when you live your life only thinkingand focused and spending on here and now, you will have no spiritual perception.Until you get your view of money right, you're never going to be able to deal with otherspiritual matters.So here's a self-serving reason to give.Maybe this church stuff will start to make some sense because the lights will come on.All right?Three self-serving reasons to give, number one, so I have treasure forever.Number two, so I'm able to see.Number three, so I serve the right master.So I serve the right master.Look at verse 24, Jesus says, "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hatethe one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other."You cannot serve God and money.Jesus here very clearly tells us that God and money are both masters.You are a servant to one of them.There's no third option.And in this context, you see, you look at stuff, and you say, "Okay, all this stuffthat I have, it's either God's for God's purposes, or it's mine for what I want."Those are your choices.Jesus said, you know, you shouldn't try to...You shouldn't try to...No.He didn't say you shouldn't try to serve two masters.What did He say?The last sentence, He says, "You cannot."You cannot.It's impossible to serve two masters.Why is that?The same reason a man can't have two wives.Because we have two masters here, and both of them demand total allegiance.Both of these masters, there's no compromise.There's no 50/50 here.You're going to be totally sold out to one of them.And right now, I'm sure somebody is saying, "Well, I'm not a slave to worldly things.I'm not a slave to accumulating."Some of you are way more than you realize.Because when you prioritize stuff over God, then money becomes your master.And Martin Lloyd-Jones told this story.I can't stop thinking about it.He told this story about this farmer that had two cows gave birth at the same time.So now we have two baby cows.What is it called?Just seeing who's still listening.And okay, so he had two baby cows.So the farmer excitedly goes to his wife and he says, "Okay, here's what we're going todo.I'm going to raise both of these cows.And I'm going to sell one and all the money is going to God.And then I'm going to sell the other and all the money we're going to use for our family."And his wife says, "Well, which cow is which?The white one or the brown one?Which one's God's and which one's ours?"And the man says, "Ah, you know what?We'll worry about that later.We'll take care of that down the road somewhere."Well, a couple days later the wife walks into the house and the farmer was weeping.And the wife says, "Honey, what's the matter?"And the farmer goes, "God's cow died."That's funny, isn't it?It's really not because it's always God's cow that dies.It's always God's cow that dies.You know, you've got a sports tournament and church at the same time.You've got to go with the sports.It's always God's cow that dies.I'm not saying you're anathema if you miss church.I'm saying it's a huge red flag as to the way you're discipling your children when youteach them that anything else takes priority over church.When does worship ever have the priority?Are you discipling your kids to that?It's always God's cow that dies.It's like, well, we have youth group tonight, but we also have a dance recital.We can skip youth group because it's always God's cow that dies.You know, I really wanted to join a small group, Pastor Taylor, but you know what?I got this hobby that takes up most of my nights.So it's always God's cow that dies.And oh, yeah, we're talking about money.When money becomes tight, giving to God is the first thing to go because it's alwaysGod's cow that dies.Who's your master?I'll give you a real easy test.I'll give you a real easy test that will tell you where your heart is.Has this sermon really bothered you?If this sermon is really grating on you, so long as I have accurately represented whatour Lord has said, if this sermon is really grating on you, according to Him, it's goingto be grating on you.That means you love money and you hate God.If you're sitting here, and if you're going to be totally honest, and you resent the truththat God has a total claim on your life, then that means, in the words of our Lord, you'redevoted to money and you despise God.But you know, if you're generous, it sort of works the other way.If you're generous towards God, you hate that the world is constantly trying to take moreof your money.You hate when gas prices go up, you hate when grocery prices go up, you hate when your taxesgo up, because you sincerely respond to that by saying, "Oh, I wanted to give more, andthat's keeping me from that."And you hate that because you love God so much.You've got a master.The stuff I have, the money I make, is it to serve God or is it to serve me?Because if it's to serve you, ultimately, you're serving it.Look, at the end of the day, money is just a tool.Money's not evil.Money's not inherently good.Money is just a tool.But money is the most dangerous tool that you possess, because Jesus said that is the toolthat you will use to replace God.You know, there's so many self-serving, personal benefits to giving to God.Oh yes, the opposite is true too.Nothing to God blesses you, but when money is your master, you hurt yourself.Literally hurt yourself.Look at 1 Timothy 6:10.God says through the apostle Paul, "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils.It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith."Look at this, "And pierced themselves with many pangs.The person who worships money by the way they live end up repeatedly stabbing themselves."So if you're sitting here at this point in the sermon and under your breath, in yourhead, in your heart, you're sitting here digging your heels in saying, "No one tellsme how to spend my money."Look, I earned this.It belongs to me.Okay.But I have an obligation to tell you that you're just stabbing yourself.So if God isn't your master, who are you hurting?On the other hand, giving it to God so I can keep it forever, letting the light shine inthat only comes to a generous heart, and serving a master who loves me and only wants goodfor me.I got plenty of self-serving reasons to give to God.Let's pray.Our Father in heaven, I'm sure this was a very uncomfortable several minutes for somepeople.That's okay.God, we didn't come here today for comfort.We came here to hear from You.And yes, sometimes God, You do comfort us with the truth.And Father, there are generous people sitting in this room that are comforted by all ofthe benefits that You have promised those who are generous.Father, I pray for those who are still holding on so tightly to stuff.I pray, Father, that this would be a time of some serious self-examination, and thatthey would not take the words of Jesus Christ lightly.But Father, I pray You would give them no rest until they seek to get this money issueright before You.It's worship, Father.It's worship.Let us worship You with the stuff that You've given us.We pray in Jesus' name.Amen.

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After sneaking off to a rodeo and winning an expensive watch, twelve-year-old Brady devises a clever way to explain where it came from. Short story with text and audio. The post Generous with Others' Money appeared first on 500 Ironic Stories.

This week, we turn up the ovens and test our baking skills with two incredible bakers. First, we talk to LA-based cookbook author and star baker, Nicole Rucker, on why summer is peak pie season, the fruit and flavor combinations that elevate her pies (imagine toasted fig leaves!) and making the best out of her leftover cookies for pie crusts. Nicole's latest book is Fat and Flour: The Art of the Simple Bake, and she left us with her Strawberry White Chocolate Cream Pie recipe. Then, Iowa's champion baker Eileen Gannon, talks to us about her surprising baking techniques for cakes, from making moister cakes, fillings vs frostings, and her buttercream preferences. Eileen is the winner of over 600 state and national baking awards and the founder of Sunday Night Foods Sauces.Broadcast dates for this episode: August 8, 2025 (originally aired)Generous listeners like you make The Splendid Table possible. Donate today to support the show.

Our guest is Dr. ROB HOSKINS, co-founder and president of OneHope, best-selling author, global missions expert, and host of The Missional Leader Podcast. Rob is considered one of the top leaders in the world on global development, missions and evangelism. We discuss his new book Theology of the City, leadership, young leaders today, revival happening globally, finding calling and purpose in life, and much more. Plus check out the top weekly leadership links. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access all the show notes. Thanks again to our partner for this episode: GENEROUS COFFEE – visit http://generouscoffee.com. You are going to drink coffee anyways, so why not make it life changing coffee? Generous is a specialty coffee roaster who donates 100% of profits to non-profits focused on fighting human injustice around the world. Whether a church, business, or event looking to order coffee in bulk, or simply ordering for your home visit http://generouscoffee.com and use Rate Code H3 for 10% off your entire order. You'll be drinking some of the highest quality craft roasted coffee in the world. Again, visit http://generouscoffee.com and use code H3 for 10% off your entire order. And ONEHOPE - God's Word for every child. Visit http://onehope.net. Providing children and youth around the world with relevant Gospel messages and Scripture resources. Over 2 billion children globally have encountered God's Word through local churches through One Hope. Partner with OneHope to provide God's word for every child: http://onehope.net.   

Featuring Kyle Banks from PKS Investment Advisors, this episode discusses how Delaware grandparents can strategically save for their grandchildren's education. Key highlights include recent changes to FAFSA rules, strategic use of the five-year election, opportunities to roll unused savings to Roth IRAs, and consideration of other strategies like directly paying tuition bills. Thanks to Kyle for some great tips for grandparents - your generosity needs strategy!

Happy 21st anniversary church! Today, we're talking a lot about generosity—but not just the kind that shows up in a donation. We mean the kind that starts in the heart, transforms how we live, and reflects the way Jesus gave everything for us. In this message, we look back on where we've been, who made it possible, and what it means for us moving forward. Because the truth is, we're all here because someone else was generous first. Let's talk about what it means to live that out—together.

They're gerrymandering our countries with "immigration"! Flint water: Is it their own fault? Montana bar shooting! Aborsh stories. Vaxx propaganda.The Hake Report, Monday, August 4, 2025 ADTIMESTAMPS* (0:00:00) Start / Snake Hake / Disclaimer* (0:06:06) Hey, guys!* (0:07:39) JERMAINE, Canada: "Nice" foreigners, crime in the UK* (0:11:59) JERMAINE: Candace-Tucker bashing Nick F.* (0:19:51) JERMAINE: Maze* (0:20:32) WILLIAM III, CA: Patton, schools, mixed fam* (0:27:09) WILLIAM III: Cincy beating, now crying "slur," Ohio worse than Oakland* (0:34:00) George S. Patton, RIP* (0:39:38) Trump negotiating peace all over peace* (0:43:45) Coffee: Thank you! Generous! Tahoe* (0:44:36) Coffee: Who should go back?* (0:48:35) Coffee: Jesus didn't blame* (0:50:10) Super: Shoulder checks? Turn the other cheek. LYC… FLINT water* (0:59:27) Trump fired her!* (1:05:27) Fuentes, Loomer, MTG* (1:07:38) Texas tryna correct the gerrymandering? Democrats* (1:13:24) Bar shooting by a vet* (1:23:02) Rumble: Who did the Flint "crime," where the millions go* (1:25:53) Coffee: Stay present in challenge at work* (1:26:51) MARK, CA: Why YOU should leave: We don't complain about racism!* (1:29:54) VA defunding veterans' aborsh maybe?* (1:34:13) Vaxx propaganda* (1:38:50) CSAL, TX: lovely aborsh story: La Biblia dice, No mataras!* (1:45:05) Stevie Nicks* (1:46:15) Supers from LYC* (1:50:28) Last news…* (1:53:47) OutroBLOG https://www.thehakereport.com/blog/2025/8/4/the-hake-report-mon-8-4-25PODCAST / Substack HAKE NEWS from JLP https://www.thehakereport.com/jlp-news/2025/8/4/-jlp-mon-8-4-25–Hake is live M-F 9-11a PT (11-1CT/12-2ET) Call-in 1-888-775-3773 https://www.thehakereport.com/showVIDEO: YT - Rumble* - Pilled - FB - X - BitChute (Live) - Odysee*PODCAST: Substack - Apple - Spotify - Castbox - Podcast Addict*SUPER CHAT https://buymeacoffee.com/thehakereportSHOP - Printify (new!) - Cameo | All My LinksJLP Network: JLP - Church - TFS - Nick - PunchieThe views expressed on this show do not represent BOND, Jesse Lee Peterson, the Network, this Host, or this platform. No endorsement or opposition implied!The show is for general information and entertainment, and everything should be taken with a grain of salt! Get full access to HAKE at thehakereport.substack.com/subscribe

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3230: Steve Pavlina reframes passive income not as laziness, but as generosity, delivering value to more people without repeatedly doing the work. By scaling your value delivery, you can earn income multiple times from the same effort, creating freedom and greater impact. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://stevepavlina.com/blog/2012/05/you-earn-passive-income-by-being-more-generous/ Quotes to ponder: "With a passive income method, your work product is delivered multiple times, and you get paid multiple times." "A person with a job is just a business owner who sells to only one customer." "Society doesn't care how hard you work. It doesn't care how creative you are. It only cares about the value you're actually getting into people's hands." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices