Sermon Notes 01-20-08

Matthew 7:7-12


I. You must ask. (Contracts have Conditions)

James 4:2 “You do not have because you do not ask God.”
Everything belongs to God. How does that truth affect your attitudes about tithing and giving?
What do you think is the main reason that Christians don’t “ask”?
If you ask and don’t hear from God what would be the best thing you should do?
What different ways do you think God could answer your request?
What is the danger of committing to a financial deal without first seeking God’s will?
Has anyone ever done that and what were the results?

II. You must learn to be Satisfied with God’s Plan

How can I Timothy 6:6-7 help us to better understand how to be content with what God has already blessed us with? Why is it in our nature to always want more?
What did Paul mean in Philippians 4:12 when he said he had learned the secret of contentment?
What is the difference between “wants” and “needs”?

III. You must be a Faithful and Cheerful Giver.

What is the principle found in II Corinthians 9:6-8? Discuss.
Why does God love a “cheerful giver”?
Whatever you need more of-give it away. Has anyone ever applied this principle and what happened as a result of doing that?
Which is harder to do-give ten per cent of a very small amount of money or give ten per cent of a large amount of money? Which situation is harder?