My pastor uses this verse frequently to persuade the congregation to contribute more to the church: 'Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.'
However, from a rational perspective, it doesn't resonate with me. My ten years of experience in the church have shown me some negative aspects. I have had to lower my expectations in accordance with the reality that the church is akin to a small society. No one is perfect; most people are selfish. While there may be a slightly higher moral standard and a bit of love, we are still human.
Returning to the verse, if I choose to pursue specialization in my profession, I need to limit my time for church and attend only once a week. Yet, there is social pressure from members say it's better to prioritize the church. I have this in my head: Will the members pay my rent or cover my living expenses? Ya I know there are some leader who brag about their giving up. "If I go with my own way to become an engineer then I wouldn't become a pastor today"
What? you make all the engineers feel unworthy. That's your personal choice, shouldn't be a testimonial how much you give up for God.
I have started depending on myself, as I find it the most practical way. The world owes you nothing. Additionally, in matters of finding a life partner, do you think a female believer would choose someone who reads the Bible every day but has low socioeconomic status, or would she prefer someone with better finances? I witnessed a young church leader choosing a good-looking girl, and his preaching on love left me feeling uneasy. There seems to be competition and social signaling even among church leaders.
However, from a rational perspective, it doesn't resonate with me. My ten years of experience in the church have shown me some negative aspects. I have had to lower my expectations in accordance with the reality that the church is akin to a small society. No one is perfect; most people are selfish. While there may be a slightly higher moral standard and a bit of love, we are still human.
Returning to the verse, if I choose to pursue specialization in my profession, I need to limit my time for church and attend only once a week. Yet, there is social pressure from members say it's better to prioritize the church. I have this in my head: Will the members pay my rent or cover my living expenses? Ya I know there are some leader who brag about their giving up. "If I go with my own way to become an engineer then I wouldn't become a pastor today"
What? you make all the engineers feel unworthy. That's your personal choice, shouldn't be a testimonial how much you give up for God.
I have started depending on myself, as I find it the most practical way. The world owes you nothing. Additionally, in matters of finding a life partner, do you think a female believer would choose someone who reads the Bible every day but has low socioeconomic status, or would she prefer someone with better finances? I witnessed a young church leader choosing a good-looking girl, and his preaching on love left me feeling uneasy. There seems to be competition and social signaling even among church leaders.