In finances, there are at least a couple of basic things we can do with money. We can spend it or we can invest it. When we spend money, we are exchanging dollars today for some kind of experience or provision (either a want or a need). For instance, when we spend money on groceries, we are exchanging paper money today (never to see it again) for something we need to survive (food/nutrition). When we invest money, though, we are placing dollars today in a money generating vehicle (like a stock or CD) in order for it to multiply into more resources down the road. With an expense, the money is gone (never to be seen again). With an investment, the money is gone with a hope that it comes back (with many friends) tomorrow!
For the past month at Wildwood, we have been talking about giving in our “Mission:Fund” series (looking at 2 Corinthians 8-9). As we prepare to wrap this series up on Sunday, I want to ask you a question: Do you think GIVING is an EXPENSE or an INVESTMENT? In other words, do you see giving money to a church as something that is gone (never to be seen again), or an investment (that will multiply into something greater)? And if it IS an investment, how might we expect the dividends to be paid?
How you answer these questions is actually really important … and will shape how you approach handling the finances the Lord has entrusted to you.
This Sunday, July 30, in our 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00 worship services, we will look at two final perspectives on giving that will show (God willing) what an investment generosity is … and how it can be used to bring glory to God. Looking forward to seeing you as we study 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 in Part 4 of this series … and bring friends!