Dear Moody Church Family,
This November we will hear more of Jesus’ teaching on money in the Parable of the Shrewd Manager (Luke 16:1–15). The primary takeaway, as articulated by Jesus, is that money is a measure of our worship—we cannot serve two masters. As we enter this season of Thanksgiving, my prayer is that we will all serve Jesus with the entirety of ourselves. He is the only one who is worthy of our worship, devotion, and obedience.
Cultivating a heart of generosity will radically shape your worldview. Jesus taught us to give ourselves away for the kingdom of God. This outward-focused orientation is the antithesis of the way the world views money, which focuses our hearts inward. That’s why our church family regularly emphasizes generosity towards God and others. When we give of our time, talent, and treasure, we are not doing so out of obligation or duty, but out of obedience, thanksgiving, and a desire to be a partner in the work God is doing in our church, in our city, and around the world.
The kingdom of God is the only investment we can make that lasts. So, if we want to become generous people, we should take to heart the wisdom of Scripture. The Bible teaches that when we give, we’re growing in love, obedience, and wisdom.
We give out of love. Giving is worship. Because God so graciously loved us, we reciprocate in love by giving to Him of our time, talent, and treasure (1 John 4:19).
We give out of obedience. The Bible is full of commands to be generous. Giving in obedience to the Lord frees us from the danger of trusting in money instead of trusting in Him. When we give faithfully, God promises to provide for our needs when we’re generous with Him (Malachi 3:10–11).
We give out of wisdom. Being a generous person allows us to invest in eternity rather than in the temporal things of this world. What are you investing in that is more important, more lasting, and more beautiful than the mission of Jesus? Nothing! (Matthew 6:20)
When we give ourselves away, we’re blessed in return—because love, obedience, and wisdom lead to true riches. That’s the upside-down kingdom economy.
Thank you for your consistent financial support to The Moody Church! The Lord is using these gifts to advance God’s kingdom, and your partnership is an eternally rewarding part of that process.
Together,
Bill Van Tuinen
Pastor of Global Outreach and Stewardship
PS: Learn more about our Thanksgiving Offering at moodychurch.org/thanksgiving-offering
