With few exceptions, most churches are funded by the families who attend them. Voluntary contributions are given by God's people to subsidize the operation and outreach of the church.

Well, sometimes we push back against releasing our personal reserves.

And yet scripture describes not only the need to give, but the joy that comes when we do.

Today on Insight for Living, we're taking a little break from our study of revelation to hear Chuck Swindall's

inspirational teaching series called Hilarious Generosity. We begin by reading select verses from

2 Corinthians chapter 8. It occurred to me recently that it has been since we began this church, if you can

believe that, that I have not once really addressed the whole subject of giving.

I know that's been a vast disappointment to many of you who've long for a series of messages on that subject.

But seriously, I feel I've been derelict in my duty.

My responsibility is your shepherd.

Just as parents with their children must address things that need to be known.

There are a number of you who need to know the value of your what Christians call your stewardship the way you set

aside for the Lord an amount of money that you choose to give to his work.

I fully realize that much of our giving goes to ministries other than the church.

However, I do know that the very first place where we should be giving the maximum of our gift should

be the local church.

Because you have always been models, and I really mean this, of generosity, I've rarely felt the need for this.

However, in recent months, we've noticed a downturn and realize that there are many of you who worship

regularly here who do not give to the work of this ministry.

That's not meant as an embarrassing rebuke,

it's a fact.

And it's my responsibility to challenge you in that area,

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