Monday, February 2, 2009

Money.Purpose.Joy Workshop on Feb 21 at 9am

Most of you have seen the announcements for the workshop to be hosted by Matt Bell at St. Paul's By-the-Sea. It is hard for us to convey in those inserts what this workshop is really about. Here's a description from the host:
"The economy has its ups and downs. But that doesn't mean your personal finances have to go along for the ride. Utilizing God's timeless principles to orient your use of money around his purpose for your life will put you on solid financial footing. This workshop will help you clarify your purpose and teach you the practical, biblical essentials for using money to fulfill that purpose. The result will be a financial life marked by freedom and even joy in tough times, good times -- at all times. Your instructor will be Matt Bell, author of "Money, Purpose, Joy" and the upcoming "Money Strategies for Tough Times"
I am counseling a lot of people that are having tough economic times right now. I am having them myself. And I'm sure many of you are too. I've learned that the by-product of tough times is a high level of anxiety, and for some, outright fear. Not one of us is immune to the effects of this economy-if you aren't suffering from it now, you will be soon, no matter if you are on a government pension or living off your investments or even if you have a trunk of gold buried in the back yard. While we cannot help you pay your bills, we do want you to overcome your fears. That is why we are bringing this workshop to you.
This workshop is designed to provide you with the knowledge to understand and live a financial lifestyle that is pleasing to God, and thereby experience the peace (and freedom from anxiety and fear) that comes with that lifestyle. Its about changing our attitude toward money and becoming the steward that God intended each of us to be and about reaping the rewards that comes with that commitment. Its about learning to do what you can do to help yourself while at the same time recognizing that God will provide for you. I'm just beginning to learn that when you've done those things you will quit worrying.
The question each of us has to ask is, "Is it worth three hours of my time and $25 (if that amount is affordable to you-if not Penny will provide you a scholarship) to maybe, just maybe, learn something that will change my life or the life of my children and their children forever?"
Penny and I invite each of you to join us at the workshop. If you want to go, contact Jerri Moats at the church office (249.4091) and make a reservation. You will receive a copy of Mr. Bell's book so that you can read it before the workshop if you would like to, although advanced reading is not required. I hope you will be there.

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