The Heart Behind the Gift

"Christ says, 'Give me all. I don't want so much of your time and so much of your money and so much of your work: I want You.'"  - C. S. Lewis, British author, literary scholar and Anglican lay theologian (1898-1963)

Scripture Focus: Exodus 35:20-22, 29 (NIV)

Question: "If you could offer God anything, would it be your time, talents, or treasure?" 

While many believe God measures our devotion by our schedules or bank accounts, Exodus 35 reveals a deeper truth: He is more concerned with the heart than what is in our hands. 

In verses Exodus 35:21, 29 the focus is on the "why" behind the gift: God only truly values an offering given from the heart. To understand how this applies to us, let’s start by looking at the original setting of these scriptures.

Roughly 4-6 months post-Exodus, in the aftermath of the Golden Calf, Moses descends from Sinai with a renewed covenant. This event (Exodus 32-34) restores the broken relationship through divine grace, signaling a fresh start and a renewed commitment to holiness.

In the preceding verses (Exodus 35:4-19), Moses calls for voluntary contributions to build the Tent of Meeting. According to the Book of Exodus, God requested specific materials—including bronze, scarlet wool, and fine linen—provided they were given from a willing heart.

Exodus 35:20–29 shows the Israelites getting ready to build the Tabernacle. This was a tent-like temple that allowed God to travel with them and live among them while they were in the wilderness. Throughout the text, "tabernacle" and "tent of meeting" both refer to the same portable structure used as a dwelling place for God.

Next, we will look at what motivated the people's generosity. When Moses asked for tabernacle offerings in Exodus 35, the response was immediate. Instead of just donating money, they personally went to prepare their gifts (Exodus 35:21).

The Takeaway: God desires cheerful generosity, not forced or mechanical giving. The Hebrew term for "stirred" suggests a heart that is lifted up. True generosity originates when gratitude for God's blessings moves you to action. 

Rather than a specific group, the call to participate went out to all individuals whose hearts were moved to give. These willing participants contributed precious items and materials, such as gold, jewelry, yarn, and goat hair.

The Takeaway: No gift is considered "too small" if it is given with a willing heart. Just as the women spinning goat hair received as much praise as leaders donating expensive gems, God measures the sincerity of a "freewill offering" rather than its market value. 

Their actions were driven by a genuine willingness rather than compulsion. By allowing people to decide freely in their own space, Moses inspired heartfelt generosity that eventually exceeded what was needed, requiring him to tell them to stop giving.

The Takeaway: Giving motivated by love, not duty, transforms the act into worship. Ultimately, God is more interested in the heart of the giver than the value of the gift.

How Will You Apply This?:

• Am I giving because I "have to" or because I "want to"?
• How can I overcome my tendency to undervalue my contributions when I compare them to others?
• How can I prepare myself to give from a place of compassion and love, rather than to seek approval or simply go through the motions?

In summary, God isn't looking for your cash—He's looking for you. Don't let your blessings become burdens by holding on too tight. Instead, offer them up as worship and let God use your willing heart for something bigger.

Prayer: "Heavenly Father, awaken our hearts to generous giving, just as You stirred the Israelites. Let our gifts flow from love, not routine or obligation. We offer our lives as a holy sacrifice, pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Yours in Christ,

Emily

Walking By Faith | More Than Just Rules: A Heart Change | Exodus 29; Acts 15; Titus 3:5 | Part 1

"I hate how hard spiritual transformation is and how long it takes. I hate thinking about how many people have gone to church for decades and remain joyless or judgmental or bitter or superior."  - John Ortberg, American evangelical Christian author, speaker, and pastor. (1957-Present)

In this opening discussion, we will be looking at the foundational truth that hearts are purified by faith, not ritual. We will examine Exodus 29, Acts 15, and Titus 3:5 to understand that salvation is a work of grace through Jesus alone, separating “religion” from “relationship”.

In Exodus 29, the Old Testament highlights rituals and shadows through the establishment of the formal, hereditary priesthood, specifically Aaron and his sons. To be prepared to enter God's presence, they were required to undergo an intense seven-day purification process:

• Washing (Exodus 29:4): They were washed with water to symbolize removal of impurity.
• Anointing (Exodus 29:7): They were anointed with oil.
• Blood Sacrifices (Exodus 29:10-21): Blood from animals was placed on their ears, thumbs, and toes. This represented dedicating their whole lives—what they hear, do, and walk toward—to God.

Because the priests were sinful, they required consecration through numerous external rituals. Animal sacrifices offered only a temporary covering for sin rather than permanent removal, acting as a foreshadowing of the ultimate, lasting cleansing to come (Hebrews 10:1).

Bottom Line: Rituals are necessary to show we need cleaning, but they cannot do the cleaning.

Just as Exodus 29 describes repetitive, external rituals, we often construct modern, similar routines in our quest to feel spiritual. Here are some considerations to help identify a “ritual” mindset:

• When you’ve had a “bad” spiritual week (missed prayer, lost your temper, etc.), what is your immediate gut reaction? Do you tend to hide from God, or do you try to “make up for it” with good behavior?
• What are some “unwritten rules” we tend to follow in the church today that feel like requirements for being a “good Christian”?
• How can you tell the difference between a spiritual discipline (like reading the Bible to know God) and a religious rite (reading the Bible just to check a box and feel “clean”)?

Concluding Remarks: Unlike the priests in Exodus who offered daily sacrifices, Jesus offered one sacrifice for all time. Because of Him, we are purified by faith, not works. Live this week in the security of being already accepted in Him.

In our next session, we’ll dive deeper into Acts 15 and Titus 3:5 to understand why true heart purification comes through faith in Jesus, not through religious rites. I hope you can join us then!

Prayer: “Father, thank you for purifying us through faith in Jesus. Help us trust in His work on the cross and live holy lives that reflect Him. Amen.”

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

Weekend Message: What Now? Part 2 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

In Part 2 of the What Now? series, American evangelist and author Beth Moore continues guiding us through seasons of uncertainty by anchoring our faith in the exalted Christ. As we wrestle with “what now?”, Beth reminds us that we cannot be firmly grounded without seeing Jesus highly exalted. 

What we believe about control dictates our actions. Rather than wishful thinking, our faith rests on the historical reality of Acts 1-2, where the ascended Christ empowers His people through the Holy Spirit. 

Beth defines ministry not as a job, but as Spirit-led service tailored to our gifts and surroundings. She urges believers to maintain their passion for God, follow Jesus rather than wounded leaders, and release offenses to remain obedient.

Ultimately, Beth points us to Jesus, who leads the Church one step at a time. 

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Scriptural References: Psalm 13; Psalm 107:20; Acts 1:12-13; Acts 2:1-7a; Acts 4:1-16; Matthew 5:15; Ephesians 1:22-23

Key Themes:

• Fixing Our Focus on the Exalted Christ: Moore urges believers to navigate life's uncertainties by focusing on the exalted Jesus rather than getting overwhelmed by current circumstances. 
• Release to Reach Forward: To move forward with God, you must release the past, honoring it without clinging to it. True progress requires letting go of bitterness and control to trust in His plan. 
• Letting Go: Trust the Redirection: Sometimes a closed door is God's way of pointing you in the right direction. By listening closely and letting go of our own plans, we can find the clarity needed to move forward in faith.
• Living Empowered: The Holy Spirit in Daily Life:  This series explores "marvelous help" from God, showing how the Holy Spirit provides strength to overcome obstacles by shifting reliance from personal effort to divine power.  
• Faithful Endurance: Moore calls believers to uphold biblical truths even when they become unpopular, urging Christians to continue following Jesus regardless of wounds inflicted by other leaders. 

Acting as a bridge, "What Now? Part 2" prompts believers to shift from fear and confusion to trusting in God's continuous, active involvement.

We invite you to find a cozy spot and enjoy this inspirational teaching by Beth Moore!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Fasting From Self, Feasting on God

"Lent is a time of going very deeply into ourselves… What is it that stands between us and God? Between us and our brothers and sisters? Between us and life, the life of the Spirit? Whatever it is, let us relentlessly tear it out, without a moment’s hesitation."  - Catherine de Hueck Doherty, Russian-born Catholic activist (1896-1985)

Heart & Truth: Isaiah 58:6-7; Matthew 6:1-6; James 4:8-10 (NIV)

Question: "If you had to pick one of these three—fasting, intentional prayer, or giving/service—which one feels most natural to you, and which feels the most difficult?"

We often check off boxes like fasting, prayer, and giving/service during special times of the year (like Lent), but these aren't just "duties"—they are strengthening exercises for our relationship with God. The goal isn't to look holy to others, but to allow these habits to reshape who we are on the inside.

Understanding these three "pillars of faith" requires a brief examination. We'll begin with the book of Isaiah. In Isaiah 58:3-4, the Israelites questioned why God ignored their fasting, to which God responded that their rituals were superficial, self-serving, and hypocritical.

While outwardly appearing pious (bowing heads, wearing sackcloth), they continued to exploit workers, engage in selfish desires, and cause strife. True fasting, God clarified, requires justice, compassion for the poor, and loosening the chains of oppression (Isaiah 58:6-7).

It’s about aligning our desires—not just giving up food, but giving to the needy. Biblical fasting breaks our addiction to comfort and proves that our appetite for God is stronger than our physical appetite. 

Now, let's shift our focus to prayer and almsgiving (giving/service). In Matthew 6:1-6, Jesus advises against performing charitable acts or praying just to be noticed by others. 

He warns that those who seek public validation are "hypocrites" who have already received their full reward in the form of human praise. Instead, he encourages believers to practice their faith privately, seeking only the approval of God.

This highlights that prayer is a personal conversation with God rather than a public performance. Similarly, service and giving are expressions of gratitude to God, acknowledging our role as the body of Christ to care for one another. 

To wrap things up, James 4:8-10 calls us to stop living a double life and instead draw near to God so He will draw near to you. Own your mistakes, remain humble, and trust that He will ultimately lift you up. 

In closing, keep in mind that fasting, prayer, and almsgiving are meant for God and our neighbor, not for public display. Let's embrace a humble, secret path of obedience and trust God with the outcome.

Food for Thought:

• According to Isaiah 58:6-7, what is the “kind of fasting” God actually desires?
• Jesus warns against practicing righteousness to be “seen by others” (Matthew 6:1). What is the danger of seeking approval from people rather than God?
• James 4:8 promises that if we “come near to God,” He will “come near to you.” How do fasting, prayer, and almsgiving (giving/service) help us “come near” to Him?
• Based on our discussion, which of these three pillars (fasting, prayer, or almsgiving) do you find difficult to practice? Why?

Prayer: "Lord, thank you for teaching us that true worship is humility and love. As we fast, pray, and give, keep us from hypocrisy. Wash away our pride, help us serve like Jesus, and make our lives a living sacrifice for Your glory. Amen."

May God bless you,

Dorit

From Dust to Grace (Ash Wednesday 2026)

"Ash Wednesday is full of joy...The source of all sorrow is the illusion that of ourselves we are anything but dust."  - Thomas Merton, an American Trappist monk, theologian, mystic, poet, and social activist (1915-1968)

Ash Wednesday serves as the formal commencement of Lent, a 40-day period of spiritual discipline—consisting of prayer, fasting, and charity—that concludes with the celebration of Easter.

Opening Reflection: How does this day challenge us to “return to the Lord”?

Below is a guide to help explain the meaning and purpose of Lent and Ash Wednesday.

• During the imposition (application) of ashes, the words “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19) are spoken. This phrase acts as a sobering reminder of human mortality and our temporary nature.
• The season of Lent is a time to hit the reset button—turning away from distractions to focus on our relationship with God and personal growth..
• Drawing inspiration from Jesus' forty days of prayer and testing in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1, 2; Mark 1:12, 13; Luke 4:1, 2), Christians engage in this period of reflection to ready themselves for the joy of Easter morning. 

Where did Ash Wednesday come from? Even without a direct biblical basis, the traditions behind it go back a very long way in history.

• In the Old Testament, using ashes (on the head or sitting in them) was a common, visible sign of deep mourning, humility, and repentance. This acts as an outward expression of inner sorrow or a desire to turn away from sin.
• Established in 325 AD at the Council of Nicaea, the 40-day Lenten fast became a standard tradition. By the 8th–11th centuries, marking foreheads with ashes became a widely adopted practice in the Western Church.
• These ashes are traditionally made by burning blessed palms from the previous year’s Palm Sunday.

Who observes Ash Wednesday? The observance of Ash Wednesday is most common in Western Christianity. For Roman Catholics, it is a major day of fasting and abstinence (refraining from meat).

Ash Wednesday services are typical for many Anglicans, Lutherans, Methodists, and Presbyterians, but it is not observed by Eastern Orthodox Christians—who start with Clean Monday—or many Baptist and Evangelical churches.

Ultimately, while Ash Wednesday carries a somber tone, its purpose is hope, not guilt or fear. It serves as a reminder that our Savior meets us in our brokenness, bringing new life out of death through the cross.

Putting Intentions Into Action:

• Which habits or routines are stealing my focus, and how can I let them go?
• Which spiritual discipline—prayer, fasting, or giving—do you plan to practice?

Closing Prayer: "Lord, thank You for the grace of this new season. During these forty days, help us to repent and believe the Gospel, embodying Your peace and love in our daily lives. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen." 

May God bless you always,

Liana

Hope When Life Doesn't Go As Planned

"When God brings all things to light, you will discover just how significant you've been in God's plan." - Aiden Wilson Tozer, American Christian pastor and author (1897-1963)

Scripture Focus: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future". - Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Feeling lost? Jeremiah 29:11 says your life isn't an accident; it's a divine design. No matter how hard things seem right now God is right there with you, actively directing every step toward a future of hope.

Opening Reflection: How does it change your perspective on a difficult season to know that God has a “blueprint” or divine design for that time, too?

When building a house, a builder does not simply throw bricks together and hope for a good result. They follow a blueprint—a detailed plan designed to ensure the entire structure is safe, functional, and beautiful. 

Many people live their lives without a clear sense of direction, but Jeremiah 29:11 reveals that God is the divine Architect. He has already designed a “blueprint” for your life.

Around 597 B.C., during the early years of the 70-year Babylonian exile, the prophet Jeremiah sent a letter from Jerusalem to Jewish exiles in Babylon. This message, containing the promise in Jeremiah 29:11, encouraged the captives to settle in and trust God's long-term plan for their future.

What this illustrates is that God’s plan is not a guarantee of an easy life or immediate freedom. It is a guarantee of His presence and purposeful direction, even when things are going wrong.

Jeremiah 29:11 also highlights that God is all-knowing and has personal plans for each individual. The word “prosper” used in this verse is shalom (שָׁלוֹם), which encompasses peace, wholeness, safety, and well-being, rather than solely material wealth. God’s plan is ultimately aimed at providing a hopeful and secure future, rooted in eternity.

The “blueprint”, however, is not a passive promise; it requires active pursuit. The following verses offer guidance on how to live within God’s plan:

• Thrive in Exile: Active Faithfulness (Jeremiah 29:5-7): The command to settle down, build homes, and cultivate gardens in Babylon calls us to invest deeply in our current, uncomfortable circumstances rather than just waiting for a change in scenery.
• Waiting Faithfully (Jeremiah 29:10): The Israelites endured a 70-year exile, teaching us to trust in God’s perfect timing rather than our own.
• Pursue God with All Your Being (Jeremiah 29:12-13): To truly encounter God, you must seek Him with total, undivided dedication.

Closing Question: When we think of “prosper,” we often think of financial or physical comfort. Based on the situation of the exiles, what does “prosperity” mean from God’s perspective?

In conclusion, God has a design for your life, intended for your ultimate well-being (Shalom) and peace. You can trust that He is working all things together for your good (Romans 8:28), even amidst difficulties.

Prayer: "Lord, thank You for Your good plans for me. Even when life is hard, I trust that You are building a hopeful future for my good. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Grace be unto you,

Charlotte

Weekend Message | What Now? | Part 1 | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

It's always our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

In "What Now? Part 1 of 3," American evangelist and author Beth Moore addresses the common human experience of finding oneself in a season of uncertainty and transition, standing between a past phase of life and an unknown future.

Drawing primarily from the biblical accounts surrounding Jesus' ascension, she encourages listeners not to panic but to anchor their hope in the reigning Lordship of Christ.

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Key Themes:

The message focuses on trusting God's control during times of transition and uncertainty, using key biblical passages to illustrate how believers can remain faithful when facing a "what now?" moment. 

• Jesus' Exaltation: Moore lifts up the image of Jesus highly exalted, seated at the right hand of God, above every earthly authority. The ascension is presented as the culmination of Christ's earthly life and the foundation for faithful living today.
• Trust in God's Control: A central theme is the importance of believing that God is in control, regardless of the uncertainty of personal circumstances. Every new season of life depends on where one places their belief and trust.
• Faithful Obedience: Rather than a call to passive waiting, the message emphasizes that the ascension of Jesus was a launching point for active, faithful obedience in the life of the believer.
• Biblical Foundations: The teaching is rooted in specific scriptural references, including Acts 1:1-12, Luke 24:44-53, Colossians 1:23, Ephesians 1-3, and Acts 2:32-36, which provide the framework for understanding Christ's ongoing work and authority. 

Start your weekend right with a dose of inspiration and knowledge!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve