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Jesus ends the Sermon on the Mount with a familiar picture: two men building two houses. One builds on rock. The other builds on sand. When the storms come, only one house remains standing. The difference isn't the weather. Both houses face the storm. The difference is the foundation. That picture from Matthew 7 offers a helpful way to think about our financial lives. Job losses, medical expenses, market declines, and unexpected bills eventually test every household. The question is whether our financial lives are built on something strong enough to withstand them. John Cortines, a Family Office Advisor with Blue Trust and co-author of God and Money and True Riches, offers a helpful framework: Think of your financial life as a house. Christ is the foundation. Gratitude, contentment, trust, and love form the walls. Our identity as stewards serves as the roof. And wise financial practices furnish the rooms. The Foundation: Christ, Not Money Every house begins with a foundation, and the Christian financial life begins with Christ. Jesus taught that we cannot serve both God and money. So before we ask how much to save, spend, invest, or give, we have to settle a more fundamental question: What—or whom—are we trusting? 1 Timothy 6 warns against placing our hope in wealth. Money is useful, but it was never designed to carry the weight of our security or identity. Instead, biblical stewardship begins by recognizing that everything ultimately belongs to God. Haggai 2:8 reminds us that the silver and gold are His. What we possess has been entrusted to us temporarily. That changes the way we approach money. Rather than asking, “What do I want to do with my money?” a steward begins asking, “What is the next faithful decision with what God has entrusted to me?” Money moves from being our master to becoming a tool we manage for God's purposes. The First Wall: Gratitude Once the foundation is in place, the first wall is gratitude. Gratitude protects us from one of wealth's most subtle dangers: pride. Pride says, I earned this. I deserve this. Look at what I've accomplished. Gratitude answers, God provided this. Deuteronomy 8:18 warns God's people not to forget that He is the One who gives them the ability to produce wealth. Our abilities, opportunities, relationships, education, health, and circumstances are all gifts we did not create for ourselves. That doesn't diminish the value of hard work. It simply puts our work in its proper place. A grateful steward can work diligently without believing everything depends on personal achievement. Gratitude opens our hands because it reminds us that every good thing ultimately comes from God. The Second Wall: Contentment The second wall is contentment, which guards us from coveting and comparison. Our culture constantly invites us to look sideways. Someone always seems to have a nicer home, a newer vehicle, a larger portfolio, or a more comfortable lifestyle. The result can be a restless appetite for more. But biblical contentment allows us to experience peace in seasons of abundance and in seasons when resources are limited. In Philippians 4:12-13, Paul explains that he learned the secret of being content whether he had plenty or was in need. His famous statement, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” comes in the context of learning contentment through Christ. Contentment does not mean we stop planning, working, or pursuing worthwhile goals. It means our peace is no longer waiting on the next financial milestone. We don't have to keep telling ourselves, I'll finally be satisfied when I get there or when I have that. In Christ, we can receive today's provision with gratitude while faithfully preparing for tomorrow. The Third Wall: Trust The third wall is trust. Financial anxiety often grows from the assumption that our future rests entirely on us. Am I saving enough? What if something happens? Will there be enough for retirement? What if the economy changes? Wise stewardship certainly includes preparation. But preparation can quietly turn into self-reliance if we begin believing our savings account is ultimately responsible for keeping us safe. In Luke 12, Jesus reminds His followers that the Father knows what they need. That frees us to seek His Kingdom first rather than allowing fear about tomorrow to dominate today. Our deepest security goes even further. For the Christian, our ultimate hope is not that we will avoid every financial problem. Our hope is in Christ, His victory over death, and the eternal future He has secured for His people. That perspective doesn't eliminate wise financial planning. It puts planning in its proper place. We prepare faithfully while trusting God completely. The Fourth Wall: Love The fourth wall may be the one we least often associate with money: love. It is easy for financial planning to become entirely inward-facing. We think about our budget, our goals, our retirement, and our future without considering how God may want to use what He has entrusted to us for the good of others. But Christian stewardship is shaped by Christ's love. 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 point us to Jesus, who gave Himself generously for us. Our generosity toward others becomes a response to the generosity we have first received from Him. As we grow spiritually, we begin asking not merely, How much can I keep? but, How can what God has entrusted to me become an expression of love? That may mean financial generosity, hospitality, using our abilities to serve someone, supporting the local church, or simply noticing a need we might otherwise have ignored. Money becomes one more way to love God and love our neighbor. The Roof: Your Identity as a Steward Resting on those four walls is the roof: our financial identity. There are two unhealthy extremes. The first is ownership: It's mine. I earned it. I'll do whatever I want with it. The second is helplessness: Nothing I do matters. I'll never get ahead. Life just happens to me. Stewardship offers another way. A steward says, “Everything belongs to God, and I am responsible for faithfully managing what He has entrusted to me.” That perspective brings both responsibility and freedom. We take our decisions seriously because stewardship matters. But we also recognize that we are not the ultimate owners or providers. God is. Our task is faithfulness. Furnishing the House With Wise Financial Practices Only after the foundation, walls, and roof are secure do we begin furnishing the house. These furnishings represent the everyday financial habits Scripture commends: working diligently, spending purposefully, handling debt carefully, saving steadily for future needs, investing patiently and wisely, practicing generosity, and showing hospitality. These practical decisions matter. But they work best when they flow from the right heart. Otherwise, we can follow every financial rule and still be driven by pride, comparison, fear, or selfishness. That's why biblical financial wisdom goes deeper than behavior. God is interested not only in what we do with money but in what is happening in our hearts while we do it. Four Questions Before Your Next Financial Decision This financial-house framework can become a practical tool whenever you face an important money decision. Before making a major purchase, investment, career move, or other financial choice, prayerfully ask: Am I approaching this from pride or gratitude? Am I being driven by coveting or contentment? Am I responding from anxiety or trust? Am I acting with indifference or love? Those questions can expose motivations that a spreadsheet never will. Sometimes they may lead us away from something we originally wanted. Other times, they may give us greater freedom to move forward. Either way, they help us consider not merely whether we can make a financial decision, but whether that decision fits the kind of steward God is shaping us to become. Build From the Inside Out It's tempting to begin our financial lives with tactics: budgets, investments, debt repayment plans, and retirement accounts. Those things are important. But Scripture invites us to start deeper. Build your foundation on Christ. Strengthen your life with gratitude, contentment, trust, and love. Remember that your identity is not owner but steward. Then let wise financial practices flow from those convictions. Storms will come. Jesus never suggested otherwise. But a financial life built on the Rock has something stronger than money holding it together. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I have a 3% mortgage on about $300,000 and keep seeing ads promoting simple-interest home loans. Would it make sense to convert my current mortgage, or consider a simple-interest loan when we move in a few years? My husband and I are considering living off our savings for a year while I attend an accelerated nursing program at full out-of-state tuition. We live very frugally and have built up substantial savings. Does using that money to fund my schooling make financial sense? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Satisfied: Discovering Contentment in a World of Consumption by Jeff Manion FaithFi Field Guide: How Much Money is Enough? Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday 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.
True Riches | The Storyteller | Pastor Nathan Grams by Emmanuel Christian Center
What is the least use of your faith? Andrew starts off by challenging traditional beliefs, revealing that trusting God in finances is fundamental to true prosperity—stay tuned to uncover why this matters!
Host Justin Forman sits down with John Cortines, author, generosity advocate, and a leader at the Maclellan Foundation, to unpack the heart transformation at the core of every faith-driven entrepreneur's relationship with money. Recorded at the Kingdom Advisors conference, this conversation begins in a Harvard Business School Bible study and ends with a vision for professionally managed giving funds that could rival the mutual fund industry in scale. John traces his journey from a young oil-and-gas professional whose online banking password was literally "retire@40!" to a husband, father of six, homesteader, and passionate advocate for Kingdom generosity. Drawing from his two books, God and Money and True Riches, John shares both the practical mechanics and the deep heart work required to move from asking "How much do I need to give?" to "How much do I really need to keep?" Key Topics: The wrong question most Christians ask about money, and the reframe that changes everything Why giving felt like a spreadsheet cell working against retirement, until joy broke through Financial finish lines: setting lifestyle and net worth guardrails before wealth arrives The four heart conditions around money (pride, coveting, anxiety, and indifference) and their gospel antidotes Why King Nebuchadnezzar and King David are the ultimate contrast study for entrepreneurs How collaborative, professionally managed giving funds could become as common as index funds Practical first steps for busy entrepreneurs ready to go on the generosity offensive Notable Quotes: “The right question isn't how much do I need to give, it's how much do I really need to keep?” — John Cortines “All things come from you and of your own have we given you.” — John Cortines (quoting King David, 1 Chronicles 29) “By definition, giving is actually a source of joy and freedom and purpose in the Christian walk.” — John Cortines Guest Background: John Cortines is the co-author of God and Money (2016) and True Riches, books exploring biblical stewardship and the heart transformation behind generous living. A Harvard Business School graduate, John began his career in oil and gas at Chevron before pursuing a calling to equip Christian business leaders with a theology and practice of generosity. Today he helps lead generosity and giving strategy at the Maclellan Foundation, which opens its global grant-making engine to families deploying resources worldwide. John and his wife Megan live on 12 acres in East Tennessee with their six children, where they homeschool, homestead, and raise everything from egg-laying hens to Thanksgiving turkeys.
What if the most freeing financial decision you could make had nothing to do with your portfolio returns? In this episode, host Justin Forman sits down with John Cortines, co-author of God and Money and True Riches and a generosity leader at the Maclellan Foundation, for a practical, spiritually grounding conversation about generosity, stewardship, and freedom. John shares how his journey began at Harvard Business School with a banking password that read "retire@40!" and how God used a men's Bible study, serious biblical research, and interviews with radically generous Harvard MBA alumni to completely reframe his understanding of wealth. What emerged wasn't just a new giving percentage. It was a transformation of the heart. Key Topics Discussed: The wrong question most Christian investors ask about money, and the right one Financial finish lines: how pre-defining your lifestyle and net worth guardrails creates freedom instead of limiting it The four heart conditions that keep investors from true generosity (pride, coveting, anxiety, and indifference) and the gospel transformation for each Why effective altruism produces joyless giving, and what makes Christian generosity categorically different The rise of professionally managed giving funds, and why John believes they'll become as normal as index funds Practical steps for faith-driven investors to move from obligation-based to joy-driven stewardship Direct Quotes from John Cortines: "The right question isn't how much do we need to give? It's how much do I really need to keep." — John Cortines "Giving is actually a source of joy and freedom and purpose in the Christian walk. And it's God's invitation where I can step into playing on his team to accomplish his purposes in the world." — John Cortines "What if 10, 20, 30 years from now, it was as normal to think about professionally managed giving funds as it is to think about an index fund for stocks today." — John Cortines Episode Description John Cortines started his career in oil and gas with a banking password that literally read "retire@40!", a saver's dream encoded into every login. Then Harvard Business School, a men's Bible study, and a deep dive into Scripture dismantled his framework entirely. What he and co-author Greg Baumer uncovered changed not just how much he gave, but why, and the freedom that came with it. In this episode, John walks through the framework from his books God and Money and True Riches, including the concept of financial finish lines that set guardrails for lifestyle and net worth, and the four heart transformations every steward must navigate: pride to gratitude, coveting to contentment, anxiety to trust, and indifference to love. These aren't abstract theological ideas. They're the architecture behind how faith-driven investors actually hold and deploy capital with joy. John also shares his vision for the future of generosity: professionally managed giving funds that work alongside traditional portfolio management, bringing the same rigor, governance, and reporting to Kingdom capital that investors already expect from their financial advisors. Recorded live at Kingdom Advisors, this conversation is a call to bring generosity out of the shadows and into the boardroom, and the family table.
Remember God loves you so much he sent his Son Jesus Christ to take the punishment for your sins. You are of great value. Jesus loves you and He is just a prayer away! This episode includes AI-generated content.
We close out our 1 Timothy series with one of Paul's most searching charges: take hold of the eternal life to which you were called. It's not enough to just have it — we're invited to immerse ourselves in it. In this message from 1 Timothy 6, we unpack what that looks like through three movements: fleeing the lie that the wealthy life is the good life, fixing our eyes on the return of Christ, and abiding in the grace of God here and now.
We close out our 1 Timothy series with one of Paul's most searching charges: take hold of the eternal life to which you were called. It's not enough to just have it — we're invited to immerse ourselves in it. In this message from 1 Timothy 6, we unpack what that looks like through three movements: fleeing the lie that the wealthy life is the good life, fixing our eyes on the return of Christ, and abiding in the grace of God here and now.
Welcome to Life Church! This week Elder Chad Pyke teaches from LukeFor more news and updates or to sign up for our weekly emails, please visit our website: https://www.lifechurchclt.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifechurchclt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifechurchcltYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifechurchcharlotte1632
Running after riches is an endless, empty pursuit. What's the alternative? Coach Donna Amidon looks at a parable of Jesus to help us put it all into perspective and learn to be rich toward God.
Pastor Chas Stevenson
Proverbs 22:3 highlights one of the clearest marks of wisdom: the ability to recognize danger and take refuge before trouble arrives. The prudent person sees what lies ahead and acts wisely, while the simple continue forward without discernment and suffer the consequences. In today's Morning Manna, Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart examine how spiritual awareness protects the soul, why ignoring warning signs leads to unnecessary harm, and how God-given wisdom enables believers to avoid pitfalls before they become disasters. Lesson 52-2026 Teachers: Rick Wiles and Doc Burkhart You can partner with us by visiting MannaNation.com, calling 1-888-519-4935, or by mail at PO Box 399 Vero Beach, FL 32961. MEGA FIRE reveals the ancient recurring cycles of war and economic collapse that have shaped history for 600 years. These patterns predict America is now entering its most dangerous period since World War II. Get your copy today! www.megafire.world Get high-quality emergency preparedness food today from American Reserves! www.AmericanReserves.com It's the Final Day! The day Jesus Christ bursts into our dimension of time, space, and matter. Now available in eBook and audio formats! Order Final Day from Amazon today! www.Amazon.com/Final-Day Apple users, you can download the audio version on Apple Books! www.books.apple.com/final-day Purchase the 4-part DVD set or start streaming Sacrificing Liberty today. www.Sacrificingliberty.com
What is truly valuable is to be known by God and have good favor from Him.
What is truly valuable is to be known by God and have good favor from Him.
Start your day with brief yet meaningful devotionals from Pastor Scott. Each episode offers spiritual insight and encouragement to help you grow in faith and walk closely with God. If you're inspired, share the message with others who could use a moment of truth and hope.Check out our other resources:Discover CrossPoint podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/5cBA7wN... Cappleman Leadership Podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Facebook Page- facebook/crosspointstarkville CrossPoint Website- www.discovercrosspoint.org YouTube channel- https://www.youtube.com/@DiscoverCrosspoint
This is the February 8th sermon from the First United Methodist Church in Decatur, Texas. This sermon is taken from Luke 16:1-13.
Many Christians struggle with money because they follow the American cycle of consume, lack, and fear rather than God's way. The typical approach leads to anxiety and a scarcity mindset, while God calls us to give first and trust His provision. Jesus warns against greed in the parable of the rich fool, who stored up wealth for himself instead of being rich toward God. God blesses us not primarily to increase our standard of living, but our standard of giving. True financial freedom comes from living below our means, creating a budget, and actively looking for ways to meet others' needs through generous giving.
What does the Bible say about true wealth?In a culture obsessed with money and success, Scripture offers a radically different definition of riches. True wealth isn't measured by what's in your bank account, but by godliness paired with contentment.Many Americans are weighed down by debt while chasing financial security, yet the Bible warns that the love of money leads to spiritual harm. The Apostle Paul reminds us that we brought nothing into this world—and we can take nothing out—so real riches are found in trusting God, not accumulating more.Jesus highlights this truth in the story of the widow's mite, showing that God values the heart behind our giving far more than the amount given. Whether you're struggling financially or experiencing abundance, we're all called to hold money with open hands, trust God with our resources, and live with contentment rooted in Him.
True riches are found in Christ. Join us TODAY as God transforms our lives with wisdom, aligns our view of wealth and leads us into wholehearted worship and bold faith.
January 15 | Genesis 17:15-18:15; Matthew 6:14-24; Psalm 8:1; Proverbs 3:16-18 // If you enjoy this podcast and would like more Bible based resources to help you reach your full potential in your life in Jesus, go to lifereachresources.com/.
Title: A Better WorthScripture Reading: Philippians 2:3-7a, 2 Corinthians 8:9Series: A Better StoryPainting: https://ibb.co/wv0YyXHIn this episode, Peggy and Pastor Bill discuss the Peggy's painting which you can view here. Peggy's painting vividly contrasts worldly wealth and possessions (depicted in black and white) with the true riches found in Jesus Christ (represented in color). Peggy shares her personal journey from believing worldly success was the ultimate goal to realizing its emptiness, learning that all earthly "trappings" pale in comparison to Christ's humble sacrifice. The sermon emphasizes that through Jesus's humility—the King of the cosmos stooping to become a baby boy in a manger—we are freed from the oppressive need to pursue material wealth and instead embrace a life of true humility and purpose in Him.
This week on The Professional Noticer, Andy Andrews unwraps a Christmas favorite with an encore reading of Socks for Christmas—proof that the best surprises don't always come in shiny boxes. Told through the eyes of a young boy on Christmas Eve, this story captures the wonder, anticipation, and quiet lessons that only childhood—and Christmas—can teach. With humor, warmth, and Andy's unmistakable storytelling style, Socks for Christmas reminds us that the moments we remember most aren't always the ones we expected… and that perspective often comes wrapped in the simplest packages. Whether this is your first time hearing it or a tradition you return to each year, this episode is a perfect pause in the middle of a busy season—a chance to smile, reflect, and remember what really matters. Settle in, listen closely, and enjoy this special Christmas episode of The Professional Noticer.
This Message is brought to you by the Senior Pastor of the global, multicampus ministry, Petra Christian Centre, Pastor Ayo Ajani.
This Message is brought to you by the Senior Pastor of the global, multicampus ministry, Petra Christian Centre, Pastor Ayo Ajani.
This Message is brought to you by the Senior Pastor of the global, multicampus ministry, Petra Christian Centre, Pastor Ayo Ajani.
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*Listen to the Show notes and podcast transcript with this multi-language player. Summary This episode explores how the presence of God is imparted—not merely through teaching or words—but through the living anointing within each believer. Ron, Ken, Debbie, and Mike share their experiences of how walking in God's Spirit transforms encounters, prayer, and ministry. They emphasize that impartation happens as we become the Word and allow His Spirit to flow through us. The conversation reveals how openness, obedience, and love prepare hearts to receive the living Word and how gathering together deepens the experience of His presence. Show Notes Living Example: Ron explains that when others haven't received the same impartation or teaching, our lives become an example of the living Word in action.Power of the Anointing: It's not teaching or eloquent speech that changes people, but the Spirit of Christ working through us.Prepared Hearts: Ken shares how the Lord prepares hearts to receive before we ever speak; openness is key.Daily Readiness: Debbie emphasizes praying before every gathering, asking God to show her whom to minister to.Spiritual Hunger: Every person has a “hole” in their heart only God can fill—no amount of wealth or success can satisfy that longing.True Riches in Christ: Ken contrasts worldly wealth with the eternal riches of knowing and walking with the Lord.Vessels of Healing: Mike reminds us that believers are channels of healing when they speak with the right spirit.Imparting the Spirit: Ron stresses that impartation flows only when Christ's anointing is real within us.Co-Laboring with God: Mike and Ken highlight that we work with God, speaking as He gives utterance, and allowing His presence to minister through us.The Power of Gathering: The group affirms that coming together in unity increases the manifestation of His Spirit. Quotes “You just be what the Lord's doing now, and it imparts if they're...
Welcome to SC Church Podcast! We're so glad you could join us. Today Pastor Denny Duron shared with us his message:“True Riches: The God Who is First"
Our mission at Northpoint Community Church is to LOVE GOD WELL! Under the leadership of Pastors Denny Rodney and Sarah Duron, we uphold this mission through our 4 pillars; we exalt Jesus consistently, love each other completely, build His church community, and serve humanity compassionately. Connect with us online at ncc.team or follow us on Instagram & Facebook @ccnorthpoint
True Riches and True Power Ephesians 1:11-23 | Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley
In How To Conquer Financial Stress & Step Into True Riches, Leon du Preez exposes the spirit of toil and reveals God's original covenant of prosperity. Learn how to shift from striving to stewarding, from working under pressure to walking in grace. Through biblical revelation and practical insight, this message teaches how to break financial bondage, recognise divine opportunities, and live in God's abundant provision — without stress, fear, or striving.
This message dismantles financial fear by restoring God's original design: prosperity without toil. From the new-covenant reality declared at Communion to Jesus restoring abundance by grace, you'll learn to work from rest, recognize divine opportunities, and avoid the two biggest blockers—pride and guilt—so you can remember the covenant, honor God, and step into overflow.
Our mission at Northpoint Community Church is to LOVE GOD WELL! Under the leadership of Pastors Denny Rodney and Sarah Duron, we uphold this mission through our 4 pillars; we exalt Jesus consistently, love each other completely, build His church community, and serve humanity compassionately. Connect with us online at ncc.team or follow us on Instagram & Facebook @ccnorthpoint
Welcome to SC Church Podcast! We're so glad you could join us. Today Pastor Keith Craft shared with us his message:“True Riches: Choose Your Hard"
Our mission at Northpoint Community Church is to LOVE GOD WELL! Under the leadership of Pastors Denny Rodney and Sarah Duron, we uphold this mission through our 4 pillars; we exalt Jesus consistently, love each other completely, build His church community, and serve humanity compassionately. Connect with us online at ncc.team or follow us on Instagram & Facebook @ccnorthpoint
Welcome to SC Church Podcast! We're so glad you could join us. Today Pastor Denny Rodney Duron shared with us his message:“True Riches"
Humility: The Biblical Path to True Riches, Honor, and an Abundant Life God wants everyone to live a rich, honorable, and full life. In this episode of The Perdue Podcast, […] The post The SECRET! To Riches, Honor, & A Good Life! | The Perdue Podcast – EP 07 Aaron & Heather Perdue appeared first on Charis Christian Center.
In this enlightening episode, we delve into the profound significance of the Word of God in our lives. Discover why it surpasses material wealth, relationships, and even peace as the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance. Join us as we explore how embracing the Word can lead to a life of abundance, joy, and fulfillment, regardless of life's challenges. Tune in to uncover the transformative power of faith and the timeless truths that can reshape your journey. #themostimportanthing #faithlife #igniteTNT
1. Called by God's Will2. Called for God's Purpose3. Called in God's GraceToday's sermon introduced us to the book of Ephesians, aptly called "The Believer's Bank" or "The Christian's Checkbook." We explored the concept of true riches in Christ, contrasting it with worldly wealth. Pastor Steve emphasized that as believers, we have access to unfathomable spiritual riches through our relationship with Jesus Christ. This truth has profound implications for how we view our identity, purpose, and daily walk with God.Takeaways:- We are called by God's will: Just as Paul was called as an apostle, we too are called to be ambassadors for Christ in our everyday lives.- We are called for God's purpose: As saints in Christ, we are set apart to encourage others, bear one another's burdens, and minister the Gospel in our spheres of influence.- We are called in God's grace: Our standing before God is not based on our good deeds but on His unmerited favor, which gives us hope and peace in all circumstances.As we continue this series, let's be encouraged to dive deep into the book of Ephesians. Let's challenge ourselves to fully grasp and live out the spiritual wealth we have in Christ. Remember, no matter what storms we face, if Jesus is in our boat, we will not sink!May God's grace and peace be with you all.
1. Called by God's Will2. Called for God's Purpose3. Called in God's GraceToday's sermon introduced us to the book of Ephesians, aptly called "The Believer's Bank" or "The Christian's Checkbook." We explored the concept of true riches in Christ, contrasting it with worldly wealth. Pastor Steve emphasized that as believers, we have access to unfathomable spiritual riches through our relationship with Jesus Christ. This truth has profound implications for how we view our identity, purpose, and daily walk with God.Takeaways:- We are called by God's will: Just as Paul was called as an apostle, we too are called to be ambassadors for Christ in our everyday lives.- We are called for God's purpose: As saints in Christ, we are set apart to encourage others, bear one another's burdens, and minister the Gospel in our spheres of influence.- We are called in God's grace: Our standing before God is not based on our good deeds but on His unmerited favor, which gives us hope and peace in all circumstances.As we continue this series, let's be encouraged to dive deep into the book of Ephesians. Let's challenge ourselves to fully grasp and live out the spiritual wealth we have in Christ. Remember, no matter what storms we face, if Jesus is in our boat, we will not sink!May God's grace and peace be with you all.
Each year, business magazines list the richest people in the world. All of this may be interesting, but the real question is, "Who is rich toward God?" Nothing we earn or gather from this world can by itself ever be considered true riches. God has something else in mind when He speaks about "true riches."