Myth #4 – It Doesn’t Matter Where I Give

Too often, we Americans live in the “or” rather than the “and.”

• Republican or Democrat
• Young or Old
• Hot or Cold
• Yes or No
• Pizza or Ice Cream

And while many decisions require an “or” response, sometimes we allow the “or” to limit us. (Seriously, I could go for some pizza AND ice cream!)

Many believers do this when it comes to the biblical topic of financial giving, thinking “I can give to my church or I can give to a missionary or ministry I fully support.” However, I believe God calls His followers to live in the “and”—to give to their church family and to causes outside the church that move their heart.

We see this in the book of 2 Corinthians. In chapters 8 and 9, we hear that the church in Macedonia (despite their poverty) gave to support “the saints” (supporting the church). Yet over in chapter 11, it seems that they also gave directly to the ministry of Paul (which is corroborated by Philippians 4:15-16). They didn’t let the “or” limit them. They chose to do the “and,” supporting the church and the missionary work of Paul.

If you are part of the Riverwood family, we want you to embrace the “and,” to give to the ministry that is seeking to help you grow into Christlikeness and to give to ministries, missionaries, organizations, and individuals that are close to your heart. Generosity should not be limited by an “or.” Rather, it should be unleashed by the “and.”