IF Pledges… Why we commit to Faith Initiatives
You’ve probably noticed that every few weeks, we are given an update on Sunday morning about where our Faith Initiatives giving is for the year. We affectionately call this campaign “IF” since our giving is a “reflection of Faith Initiatives.”
Toward the end of every year, Parkway coordinates an IF pledge campaign that provides us with an amazing opportunity to be a blessing to others in the coming year. But why do we commit to Faith Initiatives and what can you do to be part of that blessing to others?
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
Giving to the needy and the advancement of the kingdom of God is, of course, beneficial to the recipients of those funds. But there’s a spiritual effect in our own lives as well. For example, the Bible is clear about the importance of giving for our own hearts:
“But this I say: He that sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he that sows bountifully also reap bountifully. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. ”
Not only does God want us to give, he wants us to recognize that everything comes from him and our giving should acknowledge that dependence through our trust and joy in giving.
The Multiplying Effects of Giving
Our giving isn’t just a 1:1 transaction. After all, God can greatly and miraculously multiply even the smallest of gifts in both physical and spiritual ways. As you endeavor to give to the IF campaign, think about the example that Paul gave when he spoke of the gifts and support that the Philippian church provided to him and his mission:
“Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. ”
In other words, Paul was ecstatic not only because of the sacrifice the Philippians made in their gift to his ministry, but because he knew that Jesus would pour out a blessing to those who gave. Our giving is amplified by knowing of the blessing and growth to come.
Leading By Example
One of the benefits of giving that is rarely considered is the ability to teach others in generosity. The church should certainly shine as a light to the world by being the first to give to those in need. But there are benefits of being that fall even closer to home. For those of us who have children, for example, the realization that they consistently watch our example is heavy, especially when they emulate our every move. In the book of Proverbs, we are told to:
“Train up a child in the way he should go. And when he is old he will not depart from it. ”
Our desire to give consistently and cheerfully is not lost on our younger generation. Our giving provides a greater opportunity for God to increase our blessings, be an example, and build up others in Christ.
Ready to Dive into Faith Initiatives in 2024?
Want to up your game this year when it comes to being a cheerful giver? Consider getting involved in this year’s IF campaign and making a prayerful pledge to give!
100% of funds collected from IF pledges are used locally, nationally, and internationally to support the missions of non-profit organizations, new churches, and other projects as needs arise. As you read through the stories in the IF Publication this year, you will certainly see the hand of God in each story.
Can you imagine what your giving can do to bless your walk with God, your family, your church, your city, and your country? Our imagination is wholly insufficient to fathom the blessing that God can facilitate. Make no mistake, we don't give solely to meet a need, but also to spiritually build ourselves and others up and to cause exponential growth in the kingdom of God.