Have you ever been walking down the street when you came upon someone in need, either asking you directly for help (financially or perhaps a hitchhiker) or someone caught in a mishap that looks like it is going to ruin their day (flat tire, shopping cart overturned, etc.)? What do you do? What should you do? Are they different responses?
The thing is that we often say we believe in a lot of very nice things, because we believe we're very nice people, but what we do and how we respond when we're caught off guard is what's really at the core of who we are. Our Epiphany, or 'Aha' moments, come when we're faced with a decision and are forced to respond out of gut instinct. We need to think about how to respond before the decision has to be made so it comes out of who we are and who we will become.
This Sunday we look at a Generosity Encounter faced by Peter and John on their way to pray at the Temple (Acts 3:1-10). Peter and John had an appointment, a spiritual appointment they didn't want to miss. The faced a request but saw a need. They responded in a way that teaches us something about Generosity and our ability to give.
How will you face your next Generosity Challenge?
>> Give what you’ve GOT
Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. V6
“Three essentials to happiness: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.” Addison
>> Give what they NEED
“Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong.” V7
“Without God, life has no purpose, and without purpose, life has no meaning. The greatest tragedy is not death, but life without purpose.” -- Rick Warren
>> Give with an eye on the FUTURE
“Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.” v8
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28
Sermon Audio: Generosity Encounter 2.3.13E Generosity Encounter 2.3.13L
Sermon Notes: Sermon Notes 02.03.13 Generosity Encounter
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