This isn't about you or me, but about touching those parts of us that often remain hidden behind masks. It's about being real, making decisions, and questioning our readiness for a Kingdom lifestyle.
As we embark on this journey, we pray for focus and dedication. We honor God, thank Him for the children among us, and strive to be a great representation of Kingdom life.
A Call to Authenticity
Let's be honest: we've all learned to put on a good face, to mask our true selves. But Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount are different. They target our hearts, compelling us to make a choice: to hear His word and be obedient or to ignore it. This series will challenge the innermost parts of us, pushing us to question our readiness for a Kingdom lifestyle.
In this opening sermon, I felt an immense desire for a word from God, a message to help us navigate life's challenges. Sometimes, the pressure to deliver an entertaining sermon can be overwhelming. But today, it's not about entertainment. It's about truth. Jesus is calling us to a tough, real conversation that touches on the heart of the matter: Kingdom giving.
Kingdom Giving: A Matter of the Heart
Giving is a complex topic. It's not just about monetary value; it's about the heart behind the act. When we think about giving—whether for birthdays, holidays, or to our churches—our first thought is often, "Do I have enough?" But Kingdom giving goes beyond amounts. It challenges us to give from our hearts, without seeking recognition or reward.
Jesus teaches us in Matthew 6:1-4:
"Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly."
This passage urges us to check our motives. Are we giving to be seen and praised, or are we giving out of genuine love and obedience to God? True Kingdom giving is done in secret, from a heart that seeks to please God alone.
The Heart of the Matter
Our actions often reflect our deepest desires and fears. We may give to feel good about ourselves, to boost our egos, or to gain recognition. But Jesus challenges this mindset. He wants us to give from a place of humility and trust in God, not from a desire for human approval.
In Colossians 3:23-24, we are reminded:
"And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."
This verse encourages us to serve God wholeheartedly, with our actions driven by love for Him, not by the desire for human praise.
The Struggle of Giving
Giving can be difficult, especially when we're uncertain about our own needs. We might worry about whether we have enough to give or if our contributions will make a difference. But Jesus teaches us to trust God with our giving. It's not about the amount but the heart behind it.
2 Corinthians 9:7 says:
"So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver."
God loves when we give cheerfully, without hesitation or reluctance. Our giving should be a joyful act of worship, a reflection of our trust in God's provision.
Living Out Kingdom Character
To truly embrace Kingdom Character, we need to:
- Examine Our Hearts Regularly: Check our motives for giving and ensure they align with God's desires.
- Cultivate Humility: Develop a spirit of humility, seeking to please God rather than impress others.
- Give Generously and Cheerfully: Approach giving with joy, knowing that it honors God and reflects our trust in Him.
- Serve God Wholeheartedly: Do everything as if serving the Lord, not for human approval.
- Pray for Guidance: Seek God's direction in all our actions, including our giving.
Conclusion
Kingdom giving is a profound act of worship that transcends monetary value. It's about surrendering our hearts to God, trusting Him with our resources, and giving out of love and obedience. As we journey through this series on Kingdom Character, let's commit to being real, to examining our hearts, and to living out the principles Jesus taught us. Let's give generously, serve wholeheartedly, and trust God with every aspect of our lives. Together, we'll grow closer to Him and reflect His Kingdom in all that we do.