Day 1: Linda's Story

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.

—2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)

Many of us want to be faithful givers, but let’s be honest—giving can feel like a choice between faith and survival when money is tight. Have you ever struggled with that tension? If so, you’re not alone. Meet Linda. Linda is a 32-year-old, single mother of two. It’s Sunday, and she is riding the emotional high of a powerful sermon and uplifting worship! With her regular tithes in hand, Linda cheerfully reaches back into her purse, digs out the envelope marked with big red letters “GAS MONEY,” and dances her way down the aisle to the offering table. Most see this as an act of faith.

Soon after, she realizes she may not be able to drive to work this week and that her already late light and water bills may go unpaid. Panic sets in as the emotional high fades. “What have I done?” she wonders. “My kids and I will be sitting in a cold, dark house… with no water!”

Let us be clear: We are not saying tithing is wrong. As believers, we know that God’s Word ordains it (Genesis 28:22). Equally as important, we are not mocking faithful giving or denying that miraculous things can happen when we give in faith. We are here to highlight the fact that the Bible teaches us to be good stewards (Matthew 25:14-30), and that being good stewards allows us to be consistently generous without jeopardizing our other financial areas.

What if Linda had a plan that allowed her to give joyfully without worrying about her bills? Wouldn't that bring her peace and freedom? God desires both faith and wisdom in how we manage our finances.

Okay, Linda. Listen…Here's the key lesson:

Faith and Stewardship Go Hand in Hand

Giving without a financial plan is not what God desires. True stewardship means managing the nine-tenths wisely so we can give cheerfully, provide for our families, and leave a legacy. What's more? We don’t just secure our future when we manage our finances well—we teach our children financial wisdom that will shape their lives.

The problem is many of us were taught to give the first tenth of our earnings from childhood—but were not taught how to manage the rest. No wonder so many struggle financially despite their faithfulness in tithing!

Looking Ahead: Your Journey to Financial Freedom

Many of us have been in Linda’s shoes—giving with faith but feeling the financial strain later. Is this what God desires for us? Let’s explore His stewardship plan. Over the next few days, we’ll walk through simple, Bible-based steps to help you:

✅ Live generously without financial stress

✅ Build a financial legacy for your family

✅ Enjoy the blessings God has given you wisely

✅ Teach your children how to do the same

Welcome to the best advice you will ever receive.

Welcome to financial freedom!

Family Moment:

Take a few minutes to discuss Linda's story and explain the importance of giving and saving with your children. Ask them:

1. What would you do with $10?
2. How much would you save?
3. How much would you give?

Don't worry about their answers just yet. We will discuss more as the week continues.