Stay Strong

Change is in the air. We see it in leaves in our lawns and feel it in the air. We’ve said goodbye and hello to dear ones. We hear about it in election campaigns. Change is exciting and offers hope!
One big change today is the way our economy is changing. Money is in a new place in our lives as we are scared to let it go. Debt is up. Spending is down. are looking at making major changes in the way we spend and what we spend on. I pray we remember to continue our commitments to give to the Lord.

Our tithing gives help and hope to others. Despite struggles we may face now, there is always someone less fortunate than you. Someone who is without a spouse, without a family, a job, food, shelter, clothing, and health. Our giving is recognition of our humanity and God's commandment to love our neighbor as we would love ourselves.

Every Christian is called to walk in love and overcome evil with good. Any other calling is not of God! Isn’t the demonstration of mercy a way of overcoming evil with good? If you are looking for your calling, this is one to do good to others and walk in love. One way we can do this is dig deep and continue to give to our Father who gives so richly to us even in these present times of trial!
I know how hard this can be. But change is in the air! Maybe this is the time we can change how the world looks at us! Maybe at a time when everyone is needing help and is hurting, WE could be the folks to offer love and shelter, because we loved and sacrificed, just as Jesus did.

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written:
"He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever."- II Corinthians 9:6-9