A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

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A Compe l l i ng Tes t imony

5. We are to give in the measure that we have (and not what we do not), 2 Cor. 8.12-14 – For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have. [13] I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness [14] your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness.

D. The Baker’s Dozen of Practical Concerns (Foster’s “Top Ten,” Celebration of Discipline, pp. 90ff., and Davis’ “Big Three”)

1. Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status.

2. Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you.

3. Develop a habit of giving things away.

4. “Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry” which means “don’t waste money on stuff promising to change your life.”

5. Learn to enjoy things without owning them.

6. Develop a deeper appreciation for the creation.

7. Look with a healthy skepticism at all “buy now, pay later” schemes.

8. Obey Jesus’ instructions about plain, honest speech.

9. Reject anything that breeds the oppression of others.