1 Corinthians 9:8

The apostle Paul is legendary for his work as a minister of the gospel. But we often forget that throughout his ministry, Paul also worked as a culture-creating tentmaker. As Scriptures in this plan make clear, Paul had the option to work as a “donor-supported missionary” but chose not to. Why? That’s the question we’ll answer in this plan, and in so doing, glean insights relevant to our own work.

The Scriptures give a number of reasons for people to work—all of them profound in their own way—because what we do for a living matters to God. Work has value in and of itself, it is intrinsically a good thing, and when work is done with excellence, it reflects God. The Bible tells us that our work accomplishes God’s work and purpose in the Kingdom through His grace.

Generosity is God's antidote to greed. It's the practice of giving your resources away—not reluctantly or under compulsion, but joyfully and sacrificially—to awaken your heart to the abundance of God's kingdom. This plan, by Practicing the Way and John Mark Comer, features key ideas and practical suggestions for us to integrate generosity into our everyday lives and discover the truth that there is more joy in giving than receiving.

Isaiah was written thousands of years ago, but the truths found within remain pertinent today. And although it was written to the people of ancient Israel, its wisdom applies to all Christians. Isaiah chapter 5 specifically covers six woes that God wanted to communicate to help us remain on a righteous path for his glory. Read this plan with an open heart and let God change you for his good.