I Apologize

Over the past 12 years as the pastor of Long Hollow, there are many things I wish I could go back and do differently.  One of those is my lack of teaching about money.

Throughout my almost 20 years as a Senior Pastor, I admit I have been reluctant to preach on the subject.  I have been challenged over and over through the years to make it a priority – by fellow pastors, teachers like Dave Ramsey and Larry Burkett, as well as church members.  I’m not saying I never preach about money, but for the most part, I have only done it reluctantly.

Last week I met with about 20 men from our church to hear their thoughts on this topic.  It was so encouraging to hear them share about their love for LH and how the church has impacted their families.  These are hard core Long Hollower’s – they are “all in” on what God is doing and where He is leading us.

Out of their love for the Lord and LH, they jacked me up.  God used them to challenge me to teach on a more consistent basis what God’s Word says about money and money management.  They were passionate about how, especially in these unique economic times, it is important that we live by biblical principles of stewardship.  In fact, they reminded me that for many, had they been following God’s teachings about money,  these days would not be as stressful.  God’s principles help us to recession-proof our families.

I sincerely apologize for dodging this topic.

In light of all this, I’m extremely fired up about starting this weekend in Hendersonville and next weekend in Gallatin and White House a new series called “Generous Living.” 

We will be studying this topic in our small groups as well.  We’re going to grow together in our understanding of God’s view of money management, as well as time management and the use of our gifts.  We will learn how to honor God with our treasure, our talent, and our time.   When we understand these principles, we can be liberated from the bondage of the materialistic philosophy of our culture.

I’m looking forward to all God is going to do in our church family during this series.  I hope you’ll make plans to attend all 6 weeks.  If possible, bring a friend.  If you’re not in a small group, this will be a great time to join one.  You can find out more about small groups on our website by clicking here, or on Sundays, stop in the Chapel and check out our group finder.

Here’s something to think about – you can’t be right with God and wrong about money.