BVOV Magazine 2013 - present

Jesus spoke about money more often than any other topic, including prayer and faith combined. Why is the subject of money so important? Take a look at your bank statement. Where does most of your money go? “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21). Your bank statement is the truest measure of your current state of faith. How you handle money is a window into your character. Storing up treasures on earth without being rich toward God means that life is all about you. Then you become a disciple of the culture of consumption (self-focused), rather than a disciple of The Lord Jesus (servant-focused). Overspending, debt and overemphasis on material possessions hinder your ability to fully commit to following Jesus. So for your gift to Jesus this year, commit to honoring Him first and remembering Emmanuel, God with us. Making the Kingdom of God Priority Next on Jesus’ “wish list,” I believe, is the desire for all of us to seek a deeper relationship with Him. Jesus names this alternative life path in Matthew 6:31-33: “Do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (New International Version). For most people in Western culture, shopping is spirituality. It is an attempt to find happiness, connection and meaning in a particular thing or product. This is impossible at worst, and fleeting at best. The attempt to establish meaning and purpose on our own, outside a relationship with God is, as theologian Paul Tillich wrote, “giving ultimate value to that which is not ultimate.” The more we have, the harder we have to work to maintain it, which means less time to develop relationships with those closest to our hearts, and to serve Jesus’ mission for the least and the lost. This is why Jesus encourages all of His disciples with the KISS principle—Keep it simple, saints! Being a Proactive Parent Another gift on Jesus’ list this year would likely be that we be proactive parents. In a “me-focused” culture with ill-defined moral values, proactive parenting requires consistency and persistence. Every year, parents are reminded by TV, their children or others of the newest gadgets (iPad, iPhone, video games, etc.) that are available for kids of all ages—just in time for Christmas. Parenting is a trust given to us by God. You and I are responsible for our children—to be light-bearers who light the path toward Jesus. The Torah warns us to be righteous so that our children can follow our example: “Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them” (Deuteronomy 4:9, NIV). True faith is both taught and caught (modeled) through the generations. Just as the Apostle Paul reminded his young protégé, Timothy: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also” (2 Timothy 1:5, NIV). Let’s show our children how to serve God’s purpose rather than being self-focused consumers of marketing. As we give these gifts to Jesus this year, may we also remember His often-used: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you.” With Jesus’ help, His love in our hearts and His Word on our lips, this will be the most stress-free, enjoyable and blessed Christmas ever. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from our family to you and those you love! V Dr. Stephen Lowell Swisher is co-founder and president of The Swisher Evangelistic Association Inc., and CEO of Steve and Kellie Swisher Ministries. He also serves as a consultant for Kenneth Copeland Ministries, where he directs the Kenneth Copeland Scholars program, Believers Stand United and Christians United for Israel. For more information, go to steveandkellie.com. *********ADVERTISEMENT********* Give a gift of the Word. Change someone’s life forever. After Thanksgiving Super Sale 50-75% Savings Books, teaching media, music and more at our lowest prices! Go to kcm.org/clearance now! Products must be purchased online. Quantities are limited, and special prices are good only while supplies last. U.S. only. *************************************** DEC '13 : BVOV : 19

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