How far does FAITH go in a church?

Well, how far?? What do you think?? One of the delicate balances of the “business” of a church is that it IS a church, and yet a business. We still have bills to pay. We still have a budget. That budget depends on the faithfulness of church members to make it.

Now, last year was a tough year. We finished the year around 3% under budget in giving (although we were WAY under in spending). We put together the budget for 2006, and it increased around 10%. Some people got really mad that we were increasing the budget. Some even threatened to stop giving. That kind of move is only hurting those who hold out . . . When we tithe, we give to GOD, not to Ebenezer. Anyway, to finish the story: We did increase the budget, and to this point this year we are over budget in our giving (and, once again, under in our spending). So God has blessed us this year, and people ARE being obedient.

This year, we are looking at another budget increase. Not as much as last year, but an increase just the same. Ministries are growing. More people are coming to church. It is natural. After seeing what God has done THIS YEAR, I wonder how much faith we will have for 2007?? Or, will we get mad again??

Time will tell!