Giving As an Act of Trust With Art Rainer

Show Notes

Art Rainer is author of the brand new book, “Money in the Light of Eternity: What the Bible Says about Your Financial Purpose.” He’s also a frequent contributor here at FaithFi.

EVERY SPENDING DECISION IS A SPIRITUAL DECISION

Art Rainer emphasizes Jesus' words that where one's treasure is, their heart will also be.

• The Bible, with over 2000 verses on money, shows its spiritual significance.
• Managing money well reflects trust in God's promises and provision.
• Trusting God with finances is as crucial as trusting Him with one's soul.

GOD'S PROMISES:

God promises to provide and bless those who give, demonstrating His commitment to bless generosity.

• Malachi 3:10 highlights God's promise to bless those who bring their tithes, promising abundant blessings as a sign of His faithfulness.
• He doesn't tell us to give only to leave us hanging. No, he ties a promise to our generosity. He promises to pour out an abundance of blessings.
• He invites believers to test Him in this, promising blessings that may be financial, material, or spiritual.
• Generosity becomes part of something greater than our temporary life on Earth.

GOD PROMISES HE WILL MULTIPLY: CAN YOU EXPLAIN THIS?

The multiplication of the boy's five loaves and two fish in John 6 demonstrates God's ability to multiply what we give, fulfilling His purposes.

• Like the boy's small offering, our resources can be multiplied by God.
• This multiplication requires trust in God's ability to use our generosity effectively.

GOD PROMISES HE WILL ENRICH: WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

Second Corinthians 9:11 explains God's intention to enrich those who give, enabling them to be generous and bless others.

• God seeks a good return on investment (ROI) from our giving. In.2nd Corinthians 9:11, Paul writes to those who trust God with their money, yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous.
• He gives so that we can give. He enriches us so we can be conduits of generosity, blessing others.
   

CONCLUSION: GENEROSITY AS AN ACT OF TRUST

Generosity is not just about giving but trusting God with our finances, demonstrating faith in His provision, multiplication, and enrichment.

• Generosity shifts our reliance from money to God.
• By trusting God with our soul, we should also trust Him with our finances, embracing our role as stewards of His resources.

Art Rainer's insights remind us that financial stewardship and generosity are integral to our spiritual lives and our maturity in Christ, underlining the importance of trusting God with every aspect of our finances.

ON TODAY’S PROGRAM, ROB ANSWERS LISTENER QUESTIONS:

• I received a settlement offer from my credit card company that's less than my outstanding balance; what should I be aware of if I accept this offer?
• Fidelity recommended I move my $50,000 savings into a high-yield or money market account; is this the same, and what are the differences?
• I have a loan from my 401(k) that's now paid off, including interest; does this interest benefit me or go somewhere else?
• We need a new roof costing $25,000 but don't have the full amount saved; should we take out a loan, and if so, what kind?
• My car lease is ending next month, and I can buy the car for $18,000; is purchasing it a good investment considering we're planning for a family and I want to avoid further payments?

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor
• For comparing car values: Edmunds and Kelley Blue Book

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 as well as American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.comwhere you can join the FaithFi Community, and give as we expand our outreach.