Growing in Financial Faith

So today during my quiet time, I realized that I have been pretty poor about giving back the little finances the Lord has blessed with me.

Confession - I only pledged $50 to support Purdue Cru. I could afford way more than that.
Confession - I tithed last week with a pretty begrudging heart. I pretty much did it because I felt like I had to, not because I wanted to give back.

My point is, how can I be asking people to take a step of faith in supporting me to go on this Summer Project, when I myself have not had the best track-record with financial faith?

I mean, at the time I felt like I had a pretty good excuse. I myself am trusting the Lord to support me on this project, so I shouldn't have to give, right? I should just save all my money and use it for my own support JUST IN CASE. Man, do you see where the holes in my faith are in that thought process?

In Haggai, the people of the Lord were so caught up in building up their own homes that they neglected the Lord's temple for 16 years! Why? Was it a lack of faith in his providence? A lack of respect or fear? An arrogance or pride in themselves? Honestly, it was probably all of the above. If you read all of Haggai, you'll see that the Lord frustrates the peoples farming and production abilities because of where He has been put on the priority list.

If you read my last post, you know that I have been convicted of the lack of faith I have had in the Lord. Part of having faith right now in my life is trusting in His providence for support money.

Francis Chan once said in a sermon, in response to a well accepted message, "I'm really glad you guys were touched by my message. Now, what are you going to DO?" Part of our growth involves actually DOING something, not just coming to a greater understanding. I want to practice having faith financially.

So! I need you to keep me accountable! I have decided to give back the following things to the Lord, however that may look (I'm still looking for places to put the money).

1. 15% of my remaining paychecks from Purdue's Division of RecSports
2. 100% of the money I receive from selling back old textbooks.
3. 100% of the money I receive from selling my extra clothing.

I have come before the Lord and promised to give these blessings back to Him in the name of His glory. If you could help by keeping me accountable, that would be awesome!

Also, please continue to pray for people to join my financial team for Summer Project!