We believe to have a lasting impact and reach this next generation is to see the light of the church be combined with the heart of the family. We desire to continually grow as a ministry in our partnership with parents. There is great power in a parent who raises up a child spiritually, and we want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. The Parent Cue is one way to come alongside your teen in what they are learning.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Series: STEWARDSHIP (2)


Week 2: Become a Cheerful Giver

Dear parents,

We’re continuing our series on stewardship, and this week our students examined 2 Corinthians 9:1-9.

In this passage, the Apostle Paul is writing to Christians in the Greek city of Corinth, and he encourages them to have the right attitude as they give toward an offering to help believers in Jerusalem. He says generosity is more important than the actual amount they give. God will provide all we need, Paul writes, and as we are blessed, we can then use those resources to bless others.

That’s really the heart of stewardship. We are called to manage what God has given us. By giving and sharing what we have—whether it’s money, time, skills, creativity, energy, or other resources—we get to experience the generosity of God in a whole new way.

God wants us to have a joyful, cheerful, excited attitude when we give—even though many people think of giving as a religious requirement or something to dread. God wants our lives to reflect his love and joy so deeply that we can’t wait to give—whether it’s money or time or assistance to someone in need.

I’d encourage you to find time this week to talk with your teenager about our lesson. Here are some questions you might want to ask:
  • What kind of impact can we have on other people if we give cheerfully? What does it say about our faith and our friendship with God?
  • What if you don’t have much money to give? What are other ways of “giving” that can still honor God and help people?
  • What’s the connection between having the right attitude and seeking God’s direction on how much to give?
Have an awesome week!

FOR KEEPS [MEMORY VERSE]
For God loves a person who gives cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7).