Dear Friends (And I AM writing to my friends),
I didn’t sleep very well last night because of my concerns about how my Monday Morning Boost, which I posted yesterday, might be interpreted. So, I wanted to take a moment to provide some clarity regarding my thoughts about the relationship between trust and money. Let me first say, trust in God is a deeply personal and spiritual journey, and it encompasses far more than just our financial contributions.
Secondly, my intention was to illustrate a metaphorical crossroad where we have the choice to place our trust either in worldly possessions or in God’s unfathomable love and provision. Let me emphasize that this was not meant to imply that the quality of our relationship with God is dependent on our financial offerings. Instead, I hoped to highlight the broader concept of the supreme value of trust in God and the spiritual dividends that come from that trust.
The core message is that because money so often represents security, happiness, and significance, giving financially symbolizes an investment in our trust in God as the source of those blessings, not money. It also represents our prayer to value spiritual treasures more than worldly attachments. I did not mean to suggest that money is the means to those blessings. Money is a powerful tool that can help develop our trust, but money is not a requirement for trusting in the Lord. Nor is there anything wrong with enjoying the blessings God provides through the things money can buy.
Finally, in my message on Sunday, I began by stating my concerns about how the church, and pastors in particular, are often perceived when it comes to money matters. I was deeply troubled by the thought that my piece contributed to that image. Yet, it was not my reputation that concerned me most; it was the dread that I had misrepresented the glorious grace of our magnificent Savior. That was the worst! So, please know that my post was not about monetary value but about the heart’s intention and the trust we place in God’s providence.
We are all on a unique journey, and God meets us where we are, with love and compassion. I pray His blessing upon the sincerity of your faith and the growth of your relationship with Him, knowing that He values your heart, not your wallet.
Thank you for extending me grace, and I welcome your questions or comments to provide greater clarity.
Gratefully yours,
Pastor Dan
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