Thanks Cheerful Givers!

"So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver."

2 Corinthians 9:7

There are few things that make me more uncomfortable than discussing money as a missionary.  There has no doubt been much abuse in government, corporations, businesses, and even in church ministries with people stealing or misusing funds.  But the discussion of money should not be a taboo subject.  The reality is that in our current system of buying and selling money is the only means to obtain necessities like food, petrol, internet access, insurance, and other things.

A huge part of my testimony is how God has always provided for my needs and that of my family.  Especially in the last year, the financial contributions of family and friends have literally put gas in our tank and food on our plates.  God has used your generosity and the timely sale of our house to provide for our physical needs.  Thank you to all who have given as God has placed upon your heart.  We have made some lifestyle changes to help us with the fluctuations in income as Shepherd's Staff disburses funds monthly, but to God be the glory:  He has provided and continues to!

At the moment our housing, mobile phones, and petrol are being covered by the church where we minister as part of a compensation plan.  Our visa restricts us from receiving cash from the church.  So those who contribute to our Shepherd's Staff account are directly aiding us with day-to-day expenses, even things like buying "tyres" for our car!  It's so great that the Holy Spirit moves people to give.  We are blessed by those who support us on a monthly basis and also those who give single donations from time to time.  It places us in awe to see God miraculously provide through you.  I'm sure there are times when you doubt that your contribution makes any difference.  I want to tell you that it makes a huge difference!

God always gives us what we need, and thank you for aiding in supplying for our needs through prayers and giving.  I'm reminded of the passage in Acts 2:45 where Luke describes the lifestyle of the early church, how people gave of their possessions to those who had need.  In giving you are living that life of faith!  We praise God for using you to minister unto us.  May you rejoice in the gift of cheerful giving!