Should my giving be a secret?

John Richardson of GenerousChurch provides some helpful insight into the question: In light of Jesus' words in Matthew 6:2-4, should my giving stay behind shut doors?

We know from our Sunday study of II Corinthians 8-9 that generosity can't be as simple as all-secrecy at all-times. Paul found reason to unveil testimonies of generosity: "We want you to know brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part" (II Cor. 8:1-2). And: "I know your readiness [Corinthians], of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia [the region in which Corinth resides] has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred them up" (II Cor. 9:2). Testimonies of generosity have tremendous potential to stir up others to respond with generosity of their own.

Click Here to read: "Should my Giving be a Secret?"

Sun Follow-up - Ben Edwards: A Financial World Example of Work that Lasts & Lasting at Work

Yesterday we explored how Christ's final three words "It is finished" can help us both do work that lasts & last at our work. 

At Sunrise we are blessed with a number of amazingly hard workers in the financial sector. One man's story that might encourage you is Ben Edwards, former CEO of the former securities brokerage company, A.G. Edwards, which was based out of St. Louis and bought out by Wachovia in 2009. 

He did so well, he bought a sword.

I've read up a bit on this bloke. He felt free to take calculated risks in the securities realm because of His security in Christ. Including: (1) Being among the first brokerage firms to go public - in Nov 1971, offering 445,000 shares at $12 per share. But, despite being among the first, he didn't cave in the slightest to shareholder pressures and demands but rather (2) Kept to his established, golden rule of "do unto others" in the financial sector - putting clients first, employees second, and shareholders would glean any benefits left over. 

He lasted at his work staying - happily staying involved with the firm till he died in 2009.

Here's one of the better articles on him, including some lessons we can learn to do better & more lasting work to the glory of God.