I have been sick recently, and in bed a lot, so I've read far more than usual. There are blessings in almost any situation! One of the books I've completed is The Treasure Principle: Unlocking the Secret of Joyful Giving, which I bought back in early January.
The Treasure Principle . . .
- Challenges readers to take seriously Jesus' teaching on money
- Teaches that God owns everything, and we are just his managers
- Argues that even though the tithe of 10% in the Old Testmanent may not be a requirement for Christians today, it is a great place to start and it should be a minimum that we aim for
- Applies the Bible's teaching to both rich and poor
- Points out that in world and historical terms almost all people in first world countries are very rich
- Argues that Christians should tell each other about their giving, in order to exhort one another to be more generous
- Exhorts Christians to consider the fact that all material things are temporary, and we should invest in eternal things
I am not sure that I agree with all Randy Alcorn's perspectives and applications, and would need to do further study to make final judgments. However, I do recommend this book. Reading it is one way to learn more about how to love God through using His money for His kingdom. Giving is one important way we can express our love and faith in God. It is exciting and liberating! Don't miss out!
You can read more about The Treasure Principle, including numerous articles and quotes, here at Eternal Perspectives Ministries.
Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI don't like the idea of telling other Believers how much money my husband and I choose to give above our tithe. It would seem like bragging and if the other person can't give that much, it might make them feel bad. I don't agree with the author's opinion on that at all. I DO believe all Christians should be giving above and beyond their tithe, however, whether it is monetary or with service to the local body as well as evangelistic outreach. Sounds like a book my husband might like to at least read as he has read other Alcorn books.
ReplyDeleteGet well!
this is a great book! i went and bought a copy and now want to read it with my husband. great perspectives!
ReplyDeletesick? poor you. i hope you feel better soon...no good reason, is there? :)
Hi Faith,
ReplyDeleteI think sharing about giving depends very much upon the motivation. Jesus makes this clear when he tells people not to give so that others will see. If someone is doing that, it is better for them not to share. However, I also incline toward agreeing with Alcorn that there are some Scriptural encouragements to share in certain circumstances. This is one of those things I haven't decided on yet! Of course, it wouldn't work in practice anyway unless others in the church agreed. If they thought giving should never be shared, it would only be a stumbling block to them if I told them how much I'd given.
If you read the book, let me know what you think of it :).
Hello southeastcountrywife,
No, not for a good reason! I wish!
I'm glad you enjoyed the book :)