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Giving Can Make You Happy

Originally published in Facts & Trends Over the past few years I have read several research projects that directly link the experience of giving to the feeling of happiness. Some of these projects have been extremely impressive in depth and focus. For
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Generosity For Everyone

It doesn’t matter how old we are or how much we earn, we all can live generously in whatever stage we are in. But don’t just take my word for it, let’s look at a few examples in the Bible for inspiration. The boy with the fishes and loaves (John 6:1-14). While
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5 Ways Smaller Churches Live Small and Dream Big

Church growth and impact over the last decade extends beyond the mega-church and multi-campus congregations we most often hear about. During this season, the small church has been on the rise as well, freed from past restraints of
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Seven Giving Messages from Genesis

Preaching on the topic of money in a healthy way can be one of the most challenging topics pastors ever address. The sermon topics can range from either pressuring people to give more (because the church has a need) to fighting workaholism (because
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Our Complicated History With Church Money

Many pastors tell me they hate fundraising. I think there’s a legitimate reason for that. You see, the call of the pastor is to cast, carry, and shepherd the vision of the church. Meanwhile, it seems that the call of the fundraiser is to
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Why the Tithing Message Is Short-Sighted

I believe in tithing, sort of. Now, let me explain. There is a good bit of debate as to many aspects of tithing. First of all, not all pastors believe the Old Testament law of tithing – donating 10% of personal income – still
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Chasing Wrong Financial Goals

If I were to list the most common financial goals that are often repeated across the nation in financial small groups, seminars, and sermons, I am confident I know the two that are listed the most. One is a goal most pastors dream of, and the other is a
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Why Tithing May Not Be As Generous as You Think

Not sure if the title of this blog is shocking to a reader or not, but let’s dive into the topic of tithing and generosity. We’ll define our terms, then we will look into a few Scriptures, and conclude with some applications.
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