Today a member of Core Church stopped by the office and asked if I had a moment to speak with him. He began by saying he had driven by the office several times and questioned whether or not he should come talk to me. I thought “Uh oh, here it comes. The break up talk, ‘We’re leaving the church. Can we still be friends? It’s me, not you.'” But, when we sat down in my office he began by saying, “Pastor I just wanted to share an encouraging word with you.” To say I was shocked and surprised would be an understatement. It’s not often someone randomly stops by to share an encouraging word.

He began to tell me how he had been out of work since October but had continued to tithe off of his unemployment. That’s when I laughed out loud. Who does that? If anyone gets a free pass on giving it’s the guy without a job. He went on to tell me that God also spoke to him about participating in the Greater Things campaign. What? Seriously? You’re kidding right? Nope. He told me how he had decided to make a monthly commitment above his regular unemployment tithe. He made that commitment last Thursday and then yesterday…he got not just one job offer, but two job offers!

Before you think this is about “Name It, Claim It” or “Blab It, Grab It” let me assure you he didn’t give with the intention of God giving him a job. He simply gave out of obedience and a faithful heart. One of the most difficult areas in our lives to be faithful and obedient is in our finances. Especially, if you’re unemployed and Christmas is bearing down on you. Yet, over and over again Scripture reminds us that God rewards the obedience and faithfulness of His children.

No matter what you’re going through, remember that God will not fail you, God will not forsake you and God will not forget about you. That was the message of week one in the series It’s a Wonderful Life.  He knows your name, He knows your struggle, and He is coming.