If you enjoy these questions or they are useful, I would like to hear about it! - Pastor Harvey
1. Bill vs. Blessing (Reflecting on Attitude)
The sermon highlights a sharp contrast between giving as a "begrudging bill" and giving as a "joyful blessing." When you think about financial giving, service, or hospitality in the church, which mindset do you naturally default to? What internal or external pressures make giving feel more like an obligation than a joy?
2. "Measured Joy" & Freedom (2 Corinthians 9:7)
Paul writes that each person must give "as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion." The sermon defines hilaros (cheerful) not as wild excitement, but as a deliberate, thoughtful, "measured joy"—like a parent joyfully planning Christmas gifts for their children. What does it look like to make intentional, prayed-through decisions about giving rather than giving out of impulse, guilt, or fear?
3. The Mirror Test (What Giving Reveals)
Point 3 notes that the mirror in the jewelry box acts as a spiritual litmus test, reflecting what we truly value. How does open-handed generosity reflect our understanding of what Jesus has already given us? If someone looked at your calendar, bank statement, or priorities, what would they say you treasure most?
4. Kingdom Impact in the Community
The sermon shared how our church generosity helped us to serve meals to nearly 300 high school band students, building trust and a safe presence in our local community. Beyond keeping the lights on, why is it vital for our church family to see our giving translated into tangible, community-facing ministry? How does seeing real Kingdom impact affect your heart as a giver?
5. Eternal Investments (Matthew 6:19–21 & Augustine)
Augustine wrote, "Where your pleasure is, there is your treasure; where your treasure is, there is your heart; where your heart is, there is your happiness." How can we practically guard our hearts against trusting in temporal earthly security while still being wise stewards of what God has entrusted to us?