What Are You Doing For Vacation This Year?

Most people enjoy taking vacations. Other than hearing a brief sermon, when was the last time any of us studied “vacations” in the Bible? Since summer is soon here, why not take a quick Bible tour together? Let’s also contemplate a few “vacation” related questions. After reading this brief article, we welcome your input and ideas.

Here are three discovered definitions of “vacation,” but there are others:

• A time specifically set aside for enjoyment or relaxation.

• A period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel.”

• A part of the year, regularly set aside when normal activities of law courts, legislatures, etc., are suspended.

In our research, the Bible does not appear to mention anything specifically about “vacations,” which are also called “holidays” in many countries. However, Scripture does speak to the concepts of the stewardship of personal rest. A few selective and popular verses we discovered regarding “resting” include:

• Gen. 2:2-3; “By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.”

• In Exodus 20:8–10, “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath of the LORD your God; in it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter, your male or your female servant or your cattle or your sojourner who stays with you.”

• Hebrews 4 speaks of the Believer’s “rest” in the Lord; verses 9-10 state, “So there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God. For the one who has entered His rest has himself also rested from his works, as God did from His.”

From Mark 2:27-28; “Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.” There apparently is a need, built into us by God, to have a time of rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. 

We did not find examples in the Bible of “Believers” (born-again Christians) going on vacations. Jesus did get away for prayer and spiritual nourishment often (Matt. 14:13, 23, Mk. 1:35, Luke 5:15-16). However, in modern terms, these appear to be more like short spiritual retreats, not vacations. Obviously, the Apostle Paul took many trips. However, his missionary journeys don’t appear to be very relaxing! 

Is it biblically okay for Christians to travel?

David wrote in Psalm 139 that no matter where we go on the earth, God will be there. The early disciples traveled all over the known world to spread the Gospel. Today, it is far easier to travel around the globe and visit other cultures and people. To do so can be a blessing and very rewarding. We simply need to remember God’s stated parameters for living our lives.

What are obvious potential positive aspects of vacations?

• Experiencing the above stated rest and relaxation; away from our usual everyday life and work.

• Building and strengthening relationships with our spouse, family, and friends.

• Providing our children with new life experiences.

• Seeing God’s beautiful creation, experiencing new places, and meeting new people.

• Using the time to draw ourselves and our family closer to God and one another.

What are a few vacation questions we might want to ask ourselves as we plan?

• Will this vacation put us in any tempting situations?

• Will this vacation violate our conscience in any way?

• Are we using this vacation to escape from life or difficult circumstances that need to be addressed or resolved?

• Will this vacation feed us spiritually in any way, or is it primarily to gratify our senses and soul (mind, will, emotions)?

• Are there ways these planned experiences could be achieved for less money?

• Will the vacation money we plan to spend decrease any money we would have given to our church, mission organizations, ministries, or others we know are in urgent need (and God is prompting us to help)?

• Have we earnestly prayed over this vacation and sought God’s Word for pros and cons?

• If we shared our vacation idea with a trusted and mature Believer, would they fully confirm our plans and related expenses as a sound and wise idea?”

What are Bible verses illuminating these same questions?

Col. 3:17 - with regards to putting on the new self:

“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.”

In our times of relaxing, having fun, and vacationing, we should always make sure these activities will be pleasing to God.

I Cor. 8:8-9 – with regards to food or causing others to stumble:

“But food will not commend us to God; we are neither the worse if we do not eat, nor the better if we do eat. But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak.”

As with food, we don’t want to purposely allow our entertainment, fun, or use of money to diminish our witness, or be a stumbling block to those in our direct influence.

I Cor. 9:19 – with regards to our example and winning people to Christ:

“For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a slave to all, so that I may win more.”

How often do we ever consider taking vacations with a “ministry purpose”?

• Taking mission trips, visiting missionaries, or serving in a specific ministry.

• Spending time helping in a Disaster Relief project.

• Sharing our skills, talents, and abilities in foreign places with others in need.

What are obvious “stewardship” questions we should ask related to taking vacations?

• Do we have an established vacation budget and are we setting aside the money (ahead of time) to cover the costs?

• Are we taking this vacation to simply satisfy a fleeting impulse?

• If an expensive vacation isn’t in the cards, maybe we should plan a simple one or a “stay-cation” and seek to be creative in the process?

• Are we using debt to pay for our vacation or spending money we don’t have? That would not appear to within God’s Word or plans for us. (Rom. 13:8)

• In what aspects might we be using vacations to pridefully show off our wealth or assets to others?

Thoughts and Conclusions:

• Biblically, it does not appear that taking a vacation is discouraged or prohibited. Vacations are not mentioned in the Bible, so they appear to be neutral and decisions we individually must decide about and make.

• Getting proper rest, relaxation, and family time together are all positive goals.

• Assessing any negative implications or impacts on ourselves, our family, or others while planning a vacation is always prudent and wise.

• Carefully planning our vacations, saving the funds needed ahead of time, and not using debt, all keep us on solid “stewardship” ground.

Whatever your decisions and plans include for vacation this year, or any year, go out and enjoy God’s beautiful creation, draw closer to Him, renew and strengthen family relationships, and give all the glory to God

We welcome you sending us any additional Bible verses, related input, or ideas. Also, do you have a related vacation testimony you would like to share? Send it to us.

We came across this quote in our research, “Vacation wisely. Rest wisely!” It appears to be a very balanced approach.

In His love,

David and Debbie Bragonier

PS. Are you interested in becoming a budget counselor for your church, and in your community? Contact us and we will tell you more about our on-line training program and Zoom-type sessions.

How Biblically Prepared Is Your 2024 Budget?

Someone recently stated to me during a phone conversation, “They are teaching budgeting practices, which is very much needed and important. However, I always think of you (Dave) as teaching God’s Word and biblical principles of money management.”

I had to think about that statement and summarization, since I have taught budgeting techniques for the past forty years. However, I then internally smiled, and decided I very much liked the caller’s label and perspective for my life and ministry work.

So, with that “label” in mind, it is now February. Do you and your spouse, if married, have a written and balanced budget for 2024? If not, why not? God’s Word clearly instructs us to do so!

If you already have a completed and written 2024 budget, then you are to be commended for obeying God’s Word and clearly following His stated biblical principles in this crucial matter.

Having a clear and defined operating budget is completely tied to the concept of obtaining God’s “true” financial freedom. Such freedom goes way beyond the “world’s” concept of financial freedom as only coming through being rich or wealthy. Those with wealth can often be living in complete bondage, and those with little wealth can be living in complete financial freedom.

In keeping with “teaching God’s Word,” take a look at what the Bible says regarding planning and budgeting. Read the following verses. If you are a born-again Christian, then let the indwelling Holy Spirit guide your responses and pending actions. If you have yet to give your heart and life to Jesus Christ, you can still practice God’s financial disciplines, and they will work for you also.

Bible verses related to planning and budgeting:

Proverbs 4:7

The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; and with all your acquiring, get understanding.

Proverbs 24:3-4

By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

Proverbs 27:23-24

Know well the condition of your flocks, and pay attention to your herds; for riches are not forever, nor does a crown endure to all generations.

Proverbs 16:9

The mind of man plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.

Proverbs 27:12, 23

A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, the naive proceed and pay the penalty.

Proverbs 21:5

The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, but everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty.

Proverbs 24:30-34

I passed by the field of the sluggard and by the vineyard of the man lacking sense, and behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles; Its surface was covered with nettles, When I saw, I reflected upon it; I looked, and received instruction. “A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to rest,” Then your poverty will come as a robber and your want like an armed man.

Proverbs 21:20

There is precious treasure and oil in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man swallows it up.

Luke 14:28-30

For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who observe it begin to ridicule him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.’

I Corinthians 14:40

But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.

(The subject here is not related to money, but note the “all things.”)

John 8:31-32

So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (Budgeting is 100% math; and math is always truth.)

We have counseled people for the past forty years. The process of budgeting gives people hope, encouragement, and specific goals. One of the primary goals of budgeting, beside God’s Word instructing us to do so, is to help people live within their means, stay out of consumer debt, have the freedom to give generously, and experience the true financial freedom God intends for us to enjoy.

Our hope is that you have your 2024 budget and financial plan all prepared. If not, it is NOT too late! Set a February date to finish this crucial project. If you need help, let us know and we will do our best to help you, or refer you to someone else who would love to assist you.

Serving Together With You,

David and Debbie Bragonier

PS. There may be others in your church or community who need budgeting help. Maybe we should schedule a budgeting workshop to teach those wanting to get started, and supplying them with all the forms and tools needed?

If you are a self-starter, you may want to look at this on-line budgeting software someone recently shared with us? It is a computerized version of the envelope system. It appears to be very practical and helpful:

YNAB (You Need a Budget)

World Events and Contemplating Financial "What If's"

During Today’s Unfolding Events, Are We Contemplating These Potential Financial “What If’s”?

There appear to be many Bible Prophecies being fulfilled in world events today. Each suggesting the potential for Christ’s soon return. However, as Christ states in Matthew 24:36-41, no one but God knows the day or hour He will come back.

With the potential for Christ’s return for His Church, it might be wise and prudent to ask ourselves some financial “What if” questions. In His preparing us to be wise stewards, Christ continues in Matthew 24:42-46 by encouraging us to be ready and prepared for His coming. Our answers to challenging financial “What if” questions could be revealing, and at the same time guide us in our financial planning and goal setting for 2024.

Following are a few current events that appear to line up with Bible Prophecy, indicating the time until Christ’s return could be short:

The Birth Pangs of World-Wide Events:

“And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many. You will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not frightened, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and in various places there will be famines and earthquakes. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pangs." (Matthew 24:4-8)

The Birth Pangs of Pending World-Wide Deception and Pharmakeia (Sorcery):

Rev. 18:23 states, “and the light of a lamp will not shine in you any longer; and the voice of the bridegroom and bride will not be heard in you any longer; for your merchants were the great men of the earth, because all the nations were deceived by your sorcery.” (underline added)

This world-wide deception also includes the notion of a two-state solution to the issues surrounding Israel and Arab nations. The Bible is very clear that the land and Jerusalem belong to Israel. (Zechariah 12:1-3; Joel 3:2)

The Sign of Difficult and Lawless Times (Timothy lists 19 items):

“But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power; Avoid such men as these.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

The Limited Teaching, or even False Bible Teaching, within some Churches Today:

“But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. (2 Peter 2:1-3)

Note: When pastors don’t teach all of the Bible, including prophesy, then the congregation and attendees won’t have the spiritual strength to endure all that’s coming; rebellious kids, death, hardships, all the mentioned “birth pangs” just prior to the Great Tribulation. They also don’t have the blessed hope that Jesus wants us to have in his pending return (John 14:1-6).

The Mocking of “End-Times” Talk:

Today, there is an increased mocking and ridiculing of talk regarding a Pre-Tribulation Rapture, the Great tribulation, and the Second Coming of Christ.

“Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” For when they maintain this, it escapes their notice that by the word of God the heavens existed long ago and the earth was formed out of water and by water, through which the world at that time was destroyed, being flooded with water. But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:3-9 - underlines added)

What are a few potential “What If” questions to consider as we plan for 2024?

What if the “Rapture” of the Church is actually about to happen?

What would we be doing differently regarding our time and finances, while still keeping a balanced approach? When we focus on Jesus and others (i.e. getting people to Jesus); time will fly by, and we are fulfilled.

What if Russia or China launch a war (nuclear or otherwise) on the U.S.?

What if the wars in the Middle East continue for a lengthy period of time, and even escalate?

What if “civil unrest” and divisiveness accelerate within the United States?

What if inflation continues, and the supply chain shortages increase?

What if there is a new round of being locked down by the government or other world entities?

Note: As many churches practiced during Covid, we don’t have God’s permission to not meet. If we should get locked out, what’s our plan to meet and continue community fellowship? Keep in mind the four legs of the local church mentioned in Acts 2:42: “They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (underlines added)

What if there is a new mask and vaccine mandate?

How prepared are we to be without work, or lose our job; financially or otherwise?

How prepared are we to love those who view these issues differently than we do?

One common denominator to all these “what if’s” is the fulfillment of Bible prophecy!

These “What If” questions are simply stated to get us thinking!

Do we need to draw closer to Jesus Christ, or even back to Him if we have drifted away?

Do we need to rethink our relationships with family, friends, neighbors, or business associates?

Do we need to make adjustments to our budget, financial plans, and goals for 2024?

Do we need to reconsider how we might better help our family members, friends, neighbors, local church, non-profit ministries, and those struggling more than us?

God’s Word holds the true answers to all the” what if’” questions. The Bible gives us God’s answers to living life, each and every day. Sometimes His answer is simply, "Trust in Me." In Christ, Christian Believers have the hope of His return to take us home to be with Him forever. In the meantime, we need to be about His work of saving the lost and encouraging one another. Christ adds another instruction for us in Luke: “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)

Let us also remember that our battle is from within (Eph. 6:12). Don’t allow the enemy to use these “What If’” questions to bring about fear. We should be biblically informed through searching the Scriptures, and we need the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide us in our finances and our planning for 2024. Then we can trust God, charge forward, and rest in His promises. “Your word is a lamp to my feet, And a light to my path.” (Psalms 119:105)

In closing, let’s remember Peter’s words, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.

May we all choose to follow Christ and His written Word. May we choose not to get distracted by the ideas and ways of the world. May we choose to charge forward as one of God’s faithful warriors, leading people to Christ for salvation before His return. As Jesus clearly stated in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”

Serving Together With You,

David and Debbie Bragonier

P.S. If you know, or are even somewhat suspect, that you do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, this link will lead you to “The ABC’s of Salvation.” The immediate result will be the giving of the indwelling Holy Spirit, affirming your eternal salvation in Christ Jesus.

The ABC’s of Salvation

The Gospel of JC, and the simple ABC’s of Salvation (Author Withheld)

The Good News: Your sin debt has been paid. You are free to go.

The Bad News: We were all born sinners, and all must be born again.

The worse the Bad News, the better the Good News is!

Jesus Christ died for us, instead of us. He defeated death and is coming back for us

In speaking of “The Rapture” - I go to prepare a place for you, so that when I come back I will take you there. That is the good news!

In John 14:1-6 Jesus Comforts His Disciples:

“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” Thomas *said to Him, “Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?” Jesus *said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”

The Simple ABC’s of Salvation

We are all sinners! If we are not a sinner, then we are not in the market for a Savior.

God knew that we needed a Savior (not a lawyer).

His greatest deed was my greatest need – a Savior!

You as an individual might be a good person, and you probably are!

But being a good person is not the litmus test.

There are lots of good people that will be in hell; and lots of bad people that will be in heaven.

We say, “Oh, but they have a good heart.” Jerimiah tells us, “The heart is deceitfully wicked”

We are wrenched to the core; we are rotten through and through.

Without admitting you are a sinner; then you have no need for a Savior!

Romans 3:23 and 6:23 (see below) package the bad news (the penalty) with the good news (the free gift)

I Corinthians 15:1-4 Gives The Gospel; The Good News:

​“Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received, in which also you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” (underline added)

Okay, What Do We Do In Response?

“A” = Admit that you’re a sinner (Romans 3:10, 23: 6:23)

Rom. 3:10-11

“THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NOT EVEN ONE; THERE IS NONE WHO UNDERSTANDS, THERE IS NONE WHO SEEKS FOR GOD;”

Rom. 3:23

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”

Romans 6:23

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

“B” = Believe in your heart (Romans 10:9-10)

The B is central! Believing in your heart that God raised JC from the grave, and He is Lord.

Rom. 10:9-10

“that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (underline added)

“C” = Call upon the name of the Lord, or confess with your mouth that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in your heart (Romans 10:9-10; 10:13)

The C is an expression and response to “B” (Believe in your heart).

Romans 10:9-10

“that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; 10 for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation.” (underline added)

Romans 10:13 Seals the deal!

“for “WHOEVER WILL CALL ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.”

Other Salvation Related Passages:

Ephesians 1:7-8

“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.”

Ephesians 2:1-10

“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;  not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” (underlines added)

We Are “Sealed” Upon Believing:

Ephesians 1:13-14

“In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory.” (underlines added)

2 Corinthians 1:21-22

“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.”

Ephesians 4:30

“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”

Economic Pressures Reveal True Character

Inflation, stock markets, job security, housing prices, rising interest rates, consumer confidence, political turmoil, racial tension, Covid fallout, abundant wealth, and many other life-impacting factors are in a constant state of change, high volatility and even chaos. The question needs asking, “How are these factors impacting our daily thought life, our actions, and our walk with God?” A personal self-analysis may reveal deep spiritual insights!

Whatever our honest answers are to the above question, volatile times provide everyone excellent opportunities for soul-searching, corrective steps of action, and a renewed pursuit of excellence and godliness.

Following are questions that the Holy Spirit can use to draw us closer to our risen Savior, Jesus Christ. If these questions are truthfully addressed and acted upon, everyone benefits; i.e. self, spouse, family, church, business, community, nation and the world around us.

As we examine our own current attitudes and actions in light of current economic, political, social, and religious trends:

1. Are we spending more or less time in prayer, reading God’s Word, and memorizing scripture?

“With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints.” (Eph. 6:18)

“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4; see also Joshua 1:8)

"Thy word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against thee.” (Ps. 119:11)

2. Are we making financial decisions based upon the fact that God is the owner of everything, and we are His stewards?

“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and all those who dwell in it.” (Ps 24:1)

“And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time?” (Luke 12:42)

3.     Have we unconsciously slipped into trying to serve two masters, both God and money, and doing both at the same time?

“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or else he will hold to one, and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Luke 16:13)

4.     Are we focusing more on temporal things (investments, accumulation, lifestyle, etc.) than on spiritual growth, evangelism, ministry involvement, or serving others?

“And if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil...” (I Tim. 6:9-10)

5.     Are we giving more or less money and resources to God’s work (based upon percentages of total annual income, rather than dollars given)? Are we “begging” to give to the work of the saints, even beyond our ability?

“For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord, begging us with much entreaty for the favor of participating in the support of the saints.” (I Cor. 8:3-4)

6.     Are we actively seeking ways to be involved in our local church, non-profit Christian ministries, worthwhile organizations, and our own community?

“Take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you may fulfill it.” (Col. 4:17)

Well, how did you fare in thinking through these questions? What action steps is the Holy Spirit prompting you to begin or renew?

If we have faltered or drifted a little, then humbly confess it to God and ask His forgiveness. He loves us and will pour out His mercy and grace. Yes, we may have to work through the consequences of our prior actions, but He will be at our side, helping and encouraging us every step of the way.

If you need assistance or training, then attend one of our seminars, workshops, or a small-group study. If one isn’t scheduled in your area, contact our office or talk with your pastor. You may be the catalyst to scheduling a seminar at your church, and in the process help many others address and resolve these same issues and challenges.

If you have stayed the course, is God calling you to financial ministry work in your own church or community? Keep in mind that you don’t need to have “arrived” financially; no one has! You simply need to be working at applying His biblical principles and have a heart to serve others.  

God desires that each of us experience His true financial freedom. He is our rock; unchanging, and the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. When we demonstrate our love for Him and live by biblical principles, regardless of volatile economic, political, or social conditions, we are free to serve Him, fellow Believers, our next-door neighbors, and all the people throughout the world who may perish without a Savior.

Serving Together With You,

David and Debbie Bragonier

P.S. Look for our upcoming "Loose Change" YouTube programs featuring our interviews with Brad Jack. God used us to help train Brad years ago. Now he has his own Texas based ministry (Maximizing Stewardship), which is assisting many churches in the establishment and maintaining of vibrant stewardship ministry work. God is multiplying both our efforts.

What Are the Most Often Asked Questions About Giving? Question 8

This is our sixth and last article in our series regarding a biblical study of giving. As stated in session one, we quickly discovered when consolidating all the giving related passages, all our acquired notes, and our published “Getting Your Financial House In Order” book, that this subject was too extensive for one Loose Change article.

Question #1 was. “Why Do We Give?” Question #2 was, “How Much Do We Give and When Should We Give?” Questions #3 and #4 were, “Should I give from my Net Income or my Gross Income (Revenues)?” and “Who should we direct our giving toward?” Questions #5 and #6 were, “What if I don’t really want to give; isn’t giving only for the cheerful giver?” and “Should I give if my expenses exceed my income, or if I can’t pay my creditors?” Question #7 was, “What do I do if my spouse doesn’t want to tithe or give money to our church or any charities?” In this last article we address question #8.

8. When we are blessed with wealth, how should we approach giving?

• First, the Bible does not condemn wealth. However, with wealth comes a lot of responsibilities.

I Tim. 6:17-19, “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.”

• Wealth also comes with a lot of worldly temptations and traps:

Notice the rich young ruler of Luke 18:18-27. Verses 24-25 state, “And Jesus looked at him and said, “How hard it is for those who are wealthy to enter the kingdom of God! 25 For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (also see Mk.10:23)

We also have the warning from Rev. 3:16-17 (in the message to the church of Laodicea), “So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, “I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing,” and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked,”

Here are several other words of wisdom and warnings from the book of Proverbs: 10:4, 15, 22; 13:7;

14:20; 18:11, 23; 21:17; 22:2, 7, 22:16; 28:6, 11, 20

• Following are soul-searching questions for the wealthy:

1. How much is enough? When do we quit consuming that which God has blessed us with? When is the house big enough? When is the car new enough? When is the vacation long enough? When do we have enough toys? When do we say to ourselves, “This amount is the limit on our lifestyle living, saving, and investing. Everything else we earn over this level goes back into God’s work”?

Example: The Christian, R.G. LeTourneau, famously known in his day as the world's greatest inventor of earthmoving equipment, is also known for living on 10% of his income and giving away 90%.

2. Ultimately, where is our wealth and treasures actually being stored? Matt. 6:19-21, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

1. Why are we saving or storing up this wealth, and is our reason biblical or stemming more from greed? We have the example from Jesus, where He denounces covetousness and greed in Luke 12:13-21 regarding the rich land owner who wanted to build bigger barns. Verses 20-21 end by saying, “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’ 21 So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

2. When it comes to the excessive wealth being retained today, we observe people who have stored up enough wealth that they think they are going to live to be 650 years old. Again, the question is, “How much is enough?”

. Brief Summarization regarding the Believer (a born-again Christian) and giving to God:

• Giving is an attitude of the heart

• Giving demonstrates the desire to seek God, His work and His kingdom before anything else

• Giving is an acknowledgement of God’s ownership of everything

• Giving shows that our affections are fixed in heaven, not on earth

• Giving shows our desire to obey God’s Word and follow His leading

• Giving is having total faith in God and being willing to “test” Him in this one area of our life

• Giving should be with a cheerful heart

• Giving should be of our first fruits

• Giving should be regularly

• Giving should be proportionate (in percent’s of income and increases) 

• Giving should be sacrificial

This concludes question #8 and ends this series regarding a biblical look at the subject of giving. Should you have any questions, comments, or a related testimony you would like to share, please contact us. Our hope is that these articles, Bible passages, along with the leading of the Holy Spirit, prompt you to continually step out in faith when it comes to giving.

If you question or doubt your eternal salvation, contact us and ask for: “The ABC’s of Salvation.” If you missed any of the questions in this, “What are the eight most often asked questions about giving?” series, then contact us and we will forward the ones you request.

What Are the Most Often Asked Questions About Giving? Question 7

This is our seventh of eight questions in our series regarding a biblical study of giving. As stated in session one, we quickly discovered when consolidating all the giving related passages, all our acquired notes, and our published “Getting Your Financial House In Order” book, that this subject as too extensive for one Loose Change article.

Here are the six questions we have covered to date:

Q #1 - “Why Do We Give?”

Q #2 - “How Much Do We Give and When Should We Give?”

Q #3 - “Should I give from my Net Income or my Gross Income (Revenues)?”

Q #4 - “Who should we direct our giving toward?”

Q #5 - “What if I don’t really want to give; isn’t giving only for the cheerful giver?”

Q #6 - “Should I give if my expenses exceed my income, or if I can’t pay my creditors?”

Following is question seven, often a very difficult and emotional question for married couples to work through and resolve.

7.    What should I do if my husband doesn’t want to tithe or give ......money to our church or other worthwhile charities?

• As just stated, this is a difficult and emotional question, especially if the wife is working and generating income. First, understand that this question is primarily asked as stated; not in reverse where it is the wife who does not want to give. However, it can be asked in such a reverse way.

• For the wife, our counsel is that she should not give at this present time (even if she is generating income). Following are related biblical principles and intriguing thoughts:

1. The biblical call in Eph. 5:22-24 for the wife to honor her husband supersedes the call to give; “Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything.”

2. The wife, in choosing to follow her husband’s request and not give, does not need to worry about her NOT giving to God’s work, and her concern of someday standing before God to give an account on this matter. It is the husband who will stand before God, and God clearly knows the wife’s heart. So, in His eyes, the wife is giving! Her husband, if a Christian, will someday be the one standing before God and giving an account for his attitudes and actions, or lack thereof.

3. Wives need to understand, that one of the reasons that her husband may not want to give, or even draw closer to the Lord God, is because the husband senses an independent and rebellious spirit in his wife, and he is reacting to this reality. Remember, God does not want the husband’s money; God wants his heart. Once He has the heart, the principles of stewardship and giving will soon follow! It is the wife’s loving willingness to follow her husband’s lead on this giving matter, that may lead him to be drawn closer to Jesus Christ?

4. We have also observed where many husbands have no issue with the wife giving some agreed upon amount to her church or other charities each month. For all the above stated reasons, we just don't want it to be by extortion, coercion, or threat. Such attitudes and actions are not honoring to the marriage vows.

• For the husband, if the wife doesn’t want to give, we first have to look at the husband’s biblical call from Eph. 5:25-28, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies.”

• As the husband, how would he answer the following questions?

1. In what ways is the husband not loving his wife as Christ loved the church? The consequence may be that she is reacting in negative ways and attitudes, which includes her not wanting to give money to God’s work?

2. Is the husband lording over the wife, and is the wife feeling controlled; emotionally, physically, or financially?

3. Does the wife feel, or know, that the family’s finances are not being handled wisely; and so in response she is reluctant to give? Remember, one of the primary needs of a woman is to feel secure. Mismanaged finances and accumulated debt will cause her to feel insecure and not peacefull. This often results in the wife feeling the need to be financially frugal and tightfisted. She senses the financial instability, and the result is her not feeling free to give back to God.

• In these circumstances, the husband needs to lovingly discover the core reasons why the wife does not want to give. Often this may require the couple to seek the help of a spiritually mature counselor. Understand, a wife not wanting to give usually goes against her very nature. Women tend to want to give and be charitable. Once these core issues are addressed and resolved, most wives enjoy the opportunity to give.

• In all the above stated husband and wife relationship issues, there will be the need to take ownership over our own individual errors, admitting our faults and wrong actions toward our spouse. We then need to humbly ask our spouse for forgiveness for each individual matter. However, understand that we may also have to allow our spouse some time to forgive us. When there have been serious hurts, it may take time for our spouse to come to a point of complete forgiveness. However, God can heal all wounds (Ps. 147:3; Mark 11:26-27; Luke 17:3; I Peter 2:14).

This concludes question #7 in this series regarding giving. Should you have any questions, comments, or a related testimony you would like to share, please contact us. Our hope is that these articles, Bible passages, along with the leading of the Holy Spirit, prompt you to continually step out in faith when it comes to your own giving to God’s work.

If you question or doubt your eternal salvation, contact us and ask for: “The ABC’s of Salvation.” Our next Loose Change article will address questions #8, the last question in this series regarding, “What are the eight most often asked questions about giving?”