Faith and Finances
Why is it easier to give of every thing but our money? Tithing is a very important part of worship. Giving is showing thankfulness to God for what we have been blessed with. The Bible tells us that ten percent of our income should be set aside for tithes. We should give the first fruits of the Spirit, actually give to God first and not what is left over. What do you think? Read more inside...
Churches and religious organizations, like many other charitable organizations, qualify for exemption from federal income taxunder IRC section 501c3 and are generally eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. To qualify for tax-exempt status, such an organization must meet the certain specific requirements. These requirements generally outline the specific purposes for which the organization has been organized and operated. Many religious groups seeking exemption from federal income taxesunder section 501c3 are in fact organized and operated for religious purposes, but are unsure as to whether they should be classified as a church or as another religious organization, such as a faith-based ministry. Find out more inside...
A lot of people are looking for how to save money because of the economy, so here are five money saving tips that are really easy to fit into your everyday life. Read more inside...
So when is enough, enough? Do you find yourself unable to enjoy what you do have because your thoughts always seem to wander to what you don't have? Contentment should be the goal of every person who desires to walk in financial freedom. In our "more, more, more" society, anyone who is content is viewed by the stressed-out masses as lazy and unambitious. It is interesting to note that various surveys show that people felt richer in the '50's they do now when we have bigger houses, IPODs, low-calorie frozen dinners, cable TV, the Internet, extra jobs and the works. Why is this so? Because we have too busy trying to obtain or maintain too much stuff!Read more inside...
It's that time to when we start collecting our information in preparation to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's". Modeling the gospel is as important as preaching it. As inconvenient and as unfair as some government regulations may seem, I am constantly reminded that God requires us to obey the laws of the land. Inside are a few tips, guidelines, and pitfalls to avoid so that you continue to walk in excellence in this area.
Spending on Christmas gifts seems to pose the greatest challenge-usually for no long-term benefit. For instance, what were the three most memorable gifts that you received for Christmas last year? Can't remember? I assure you that the people to whom you gave gifts will have the same problem recalling them. So, if the gifts are not that easily recalled why put yourself in the position of having to remember them each month when you make that credit card payment? Why give a gift that keeps on costing? Instead, give something simple from your heart. Learn more inside...
Spending on Christmas gifts seems to pose the greatest challenge-usually for no long-term benefit. For instance, what were the three most memorable gifts that you received for Christmas last year? Can't remember? I assure you that the people to whom you gave gifts will have the same problem recalling them. So, if the gifts are not that easily recalled why put yourself in the position of having to remember them each month when you make that credit card payment? Why give a gift that keeps on costing? Instead, give something simple from your heart. Learn more inside...
Despite my admonitions, a single overriding emotion can cause anybody to abandon sound financial judgment. Let me share seven emotions that may cause you to spend in an unwise manner and some ways of dealing with them.
You are well aware of the financial woes that we are experiencing as a country. On the surface, you have every reason to become alarmed. However, as God's children, we are called to have a different mindset. I was awakened recently with this message on surviving the crisis. For simplicity and retention, I will use the word C-O-P-E as an acronym to outline the basics of what we must do now. Find out more inside...
Leaders lead... ideally in every discipline: spiritually, physically, emotionally, relationally and yes even, financially. Those of us who are in ministry are under the constant surveillance of a skeptical and cynical world with scrutiny of our finances. There is no area that will test your spirituality, your commitment to holiness more than the area of finances...find out more inside...