Appreciation
IDI EBUBE, IDI OMEME, IDIKWE ITU ANYA!
I bring heartfelt thanks to the Rector of this Parish, my brother Rev. Godwin, and his ever-cheerful, Spirit-filled wife—a great woman of God. Your warm welcome, your leadership, and your hospitality are deeply appreciated.
To the entire congregation, I extend my sincere gratitude. Thank you for receiving me, the PCC, and the committee with open arms. May God bless you richly for your kindness and partnership in ministry.
Introduction
This morning, we gather not only to worship but to reflect on a powerful truth: God is faithful. His faithfulness is not just an idea—it is a living, active reality that should stir us to respond with cheerful, generous giving.
“Tobechukwu—He has done it for me!”
1. Understanding God’s Faithfulness
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22–23
God’s faithfulness is unshakeable. He is a covenant-keeping God, whose mercy and provision are constant, even when we do not see them. His character does not change, and His promises never fail.
2. Our Response: Cheerful Giving
“Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7
Giving is not a duty—it’s an act of worship and a response to God’s goodness. When we give with joy and intention, we reflect His generosity and our gratitude for all He has done.
Jesus said, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (Luke 20:25). Our giving should acknowledge that all we have comes from God.
3. Jesus: The Ultimate Giver
“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus… who made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant…” — Philippians 2:5–7
Jesus gave up heaven to redeem us. His life, His love, and ultimately, His death on the Cross were the greatest expressions of giving. He is our perfect example. To follow Him is to live generously.
4. Giving Impacts Lives
“It is more blessed to give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35
Our giving has the power to transform families, churches, and communities. Every offering we give supports the spread of the Gospel, feeds the hungry, helps the poor, and uplifts the weak. When we give, we partner with God in kingdom work.
5. Trusting God’s Provision
“Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap… yet your heavenly Father feeds them.” — Matthew 6:26
Often, fear holds us back from giving. But God assures us—He is our provider. We can give freely because He never fails. When we sow in faith, He multiplies in abundance.
Four Pillars of God’s Faithfulness
- God Never Changes
“I the Lord do not change…” — Malachi 3:6
His promises are steady and true. - God Keeps His Promises
“No matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 1:20
He is dependable—His Word never returns void. - God Provides in Difficult Times
“His mercies are new every morning.” — Lamentations 3:22–23
Even in the storm, His faithfulness stands. - God Is Faithful Despite Us
“If we are faithless, He remains faithful…” — 2 Timothy 2:13
His faithfulness is rooted in who He is, not who we are.
Conclusion: A Story and A Call
Let me share a personal story:
[Insert your personal testimony or example here—for instance, a moment God provided miraculously or answered a prayer.]
This story, like so many others, is proof that God is faithful. Let that truth move your heart today. Let it shape how you give, how you love, and how you serve.
Give not out of pressure—but out of praise.
Give not just your money, but your time, your talents, and your heart.
Give because Tobechukwu has done it for you!
Let Us Pray
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unshakable faithfulness. Open our hearts to respond in worship through our giving. May our generosity be a reflection of Your goodness. Help us to trust You more, and to honor You with everything we have. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
