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The blessed life
Discover the Joy of Giving--and the Rewards of Receiving
Our culture is saturated with false teaching on what it means to be blessed, but what does the Bible say about it? How can we truly live blessed lives? With humor, passion, and clarity, pastor and bestselling author Robert Morris presents the secrets of living a blessed life both financially and spiritually. He shows that when God changes your heart from selfishness to generosity, every part of your life-journey is affected.
"There is no greater adventure on Earth than simply living the life of generosity and abundance that is available to all of God's people--but so few ever dare to live," says Pastor Robert. "It is a journey of reward. It is the blessed life. "
First published in 2002, this newly revised and expanded edition includes new content from recent sermons, updated illustrations from years of the life-changing impact of its message, and testimonies from people experiencing the blessed life.
Our culture is saturated with false teaching on what it means to be blessed, but what does the Bible say about it? How can we truly live blessed lives? With humor, passion, and clarity, pastor and bestselling author Robert Morris presents the secrets of living a blessed life both financially and spiritually. He shows that when God changes your heart from selfishness to generosity, every part of your life-journey is affected.
"There is no greater adventure on Earth than simply living the life of generosity and abundance that is available to all of God's people--but so few ever dare to live," says Pastor Robert. "It is a journey of reward. It is the blessed life. "
First published in 2002, this newly revised and expanded edition includes new content from recent sermons, updated illustrations from years of the life-changing impact of its message, and testimonies from people experiencing the blessed life.
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2002
693 people are currently reading
2499 people want to read
About the author
Robert Morris
54 books123 followersRobert Morris is the founding senior pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than 39,000 active members. He is featured on the daily television program The Blessed Life and hosts Worship & the Word on radio stations across America. He serves as chairman of the board of The King’s University and is the bestselling author of 14 books, including The Blessed Life, The God I Never Knew, Truly Free, and Frequency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
June 26, 2013
Far from how it appears, this book is in fact the ANTIDOTE to faulty prosperity doctrine AND the 'fear of prosperity doctrine' thinking plaguing Christianity today. I got it solely due to Dave Ramsey's high recommendation and would never have picked it off a store shelf myself.
The cover tagline does a bad job differentiating itself from a morass of prosperity-riddled Christian self-help (particularly to more sceptical, non American eyes) but that is more due to our prejudice laden attitude towards finance than the author's intent. I realise after reading the book that my interpretation of the cover's 'financial results' had completely changed to meaning spiritual gain not material return.
It unpacks in amazing scriptural detail all that the verse 'Where your treasure is there your heart will be also' demands of us as Christian stewards of money and how to subjugate it to God's purposes in our lives in the same way we should our bodies, relationships, talents etc. If the cover attracts you, you should read this; if it repels you, you should read it too and prepare to be challenged!
The cover tagline does a bad job differentiating itself from a morass of prosperity-riddled Christian self-help (particularly to more sceptical, non American eyes) but that is more due to our prejudice laden attitude towards finance than the author's intent. I realise after reading the book that my interpretation of the cover's 'financial results' had completely changed to meaning spiritual gain not material return.
It unpacks in amazing scriptural detail all that the verse 'Where your treasure is there your heart will be also' demands of us as Christian stewards of money and how to subjugate it to God's purposes in our lives in the same way we should our bodies, relationships, talents etc. If the cover attracts you, you should read this; if it repels you, you should read it too and prepare to be challenged!
January 21, 2016
Edited my original review of 4 to 1 star. I did some more research and did a detailed comparison with the scriptures and found errors such as a lack of proper distinction between law and Gospel and also several verses ripped out of context. Quite honestly I now feel like I was manipulated. While the intent of the book seems to be good, the manipulation of scripture (proof texting) is unfortunately common in the book. Sadly I needed to revise my review and I cannot recommend this book. Read and study the bible to know the truth about giving and why we as believers generously give in the first place: because He (Jesus Christ) gave Himself unto us and died for our sins.
June 9, 2015
"Guaranteed Financial Results" was not a good way to start right from the subtitle. Morris makes a valid scriptural point--we need to handle our money like stewards, not owners. Sure enough, and when God leads us to go beyond tithing to "give til it hurts" we need to listen. No problem there. I felt convicted that we should go beyond tithing.
But God doesn't guarantee "financial results" He promises blessings. Big difference. Several times Morris says he doesn't use himself as an example because he is proud of being such a daring giver, but it sure seems that way to me.
Another problem with the book is his repeated reference to the Lord speaking directly to him and telling him, "give away this car to that person" (and why the car fixation?). He does use scripture in this book to make his points, but he makes as many references to personal revelation to himself, which he seems to raise to the level of scripture. Not so good.
But God doesn't guarantee "financial results" He promises blessings. Big difference. Several times Morris says he doesn't use himself as an example because he is proud of being such a daring giver, but it sure seems that way to me.
Another problem with the book is his repeated reference to the Lord speaking directly to him and telling him, "give away this car to that person" (and why the car fixation?). He does use scripture in this book to make his points, but he makes as many references to personal revelation to himself, which he seems to raise to the level of scripture. Not so good.
March 15, 2024
"The Bible says that we must be faithful with little before we will be entrusted with much." ~ Robert Morris, "The Blessed Life", p. 95-96
The gift of giving is emphasized in this book, as well as many other aspects of giving according to the Bible. Robert Morris shares his journey of giving and gives other examples of giving from the lives of people he has come across in his journey.
Giving is the key to a blessed life.
Again, the only criticism I have of this book is "work" is not emphasized enough. The question is: How can we give, unless we labour and receive wages or profit?
The gift of giving is emphasized in this book, as well as many other aspects of giving according to the Bible. Robert Morris shares his journey of giving and gives other examples of giving from the lives of people he has come across in his journey.
Giving is the key to a blessed life.
Again, the only criticism I have of this book is "work" is not emphasized enough. The question is: How can we give, unless we labour and receive wages or profit?
April 9, 2020
Recently, I re-read this book for the fourth time. It is worth re-reading godly wisdom often to keep your heart aligned with your Father’s giving heart. Robert Morris encourages us to be extravagant givers. Morris starts with teaching about the tithe. He shows how our willingness to trust God every time we are paid with 10% of that paycheck protects all of the money we get to steward. This book helps us offer our heart to God and navigate the tricky balance between giving and the blessing that follows. We never want to “give to get,” but this helps us see how blessing follows faithful givers.
On a personal note, Morris tells a story about receiving a car from one family only to give to another. In the week that he owned the car the engine broke down and he financed a costly repair. He shares a prayer conversation with God, basically asking “Why me?” He hears the answer of “Because you are blessed.” The original giver or the receiver could not have afforded the repair, but he could. So Morris sensed God asking, “Should I remove some of the blessings I’ve given you?” This really has been a model for our family while owning our home for the last four years. During this time we’ve replaced EVERY appliance! When I’ve been upset about the financial burden of this and taken it to God in prayer, I’ve been reminded of this story. We are blessed. Replacing all these appliances is God using us to bless the next family who will come to own this house.
Try this book out to unlock the rewards of generous living.
On a personal note, Morris tells a story about receiving a car from one family only to give to another. In the week that he owned the car the engine broke down and he financed a costly repair. He shares a prayer conversation with God, basically asking “Why me?” He hears the answer of “Because you are blessed.” The original giver or the receiver could not have afforded the repair, but he could. So Morris sensed God asking, “Should I remove some of the blessings I’ve given you?” This really has been a model for our family while owning our home for the last four years. During this time we’ve replaced EVERY appliance! When I’ve been upset about the financial burden of this and taken it to God in prayer, I’ve been reminded of this story. We are blessed. Replacing all these appliances is God using us to bless the next family who will come to own this house.
Try this book out to unlock the rewards of generous living.
October 17, 2011
I was very skeptical when our pastor brought this book to our church to read. I didn't "get it" first of all; the topic wasn't clear to me (probably b/c I wasn't listening carefully enough!), but after 2 trusted friends shared that this book was changing their lives, I read it. WOW. God's done an amazing work of transformation in my heart in tandem with reading this book. It talks a lot about the financial principles in the Bible and how to apply them to daily life; it also teaches and encourages on the joy of giving. I didn't want to read a "prosperity preaching" book or a book about how to budget. This is neither. It's a genuine book about the heart of God and His desire to bless us. The core of my desire to bless, to be like Him, is where God's changing me. I highly recommend this book.
February 11, 2012
Great book on giving by the pastor of Gateway Church. This was recommended to me by Clark Mitchell, pastor of Journey Church in Norman, OK. He was right. I've read many books on giving, this is the best one written that I've seen in recent times. I highly recommend it.
Presents the issue of giving from the perspective of keeping a loose hold on the things the Lord allows us to be stewards over so that he can use them for His purposes and continue to funnel more resources through us to invest into people and into the Kingdom.
I recommend it highly. This book takes the debate away from the issue of "is tithing biblical" and into the realm of "why wouldn't I want to invest in what the Lord is doing and make a difference in the world and in my own life?"
Presents the issue of giving from the perspective of keeping a loose hold on the things the Lord allows us to be stewards over so that he can use them for His purposes and continue to funnel more resources through us to invest into people and into the Kingdom.
I recommend it highly. This book takes the debate away from the issue of "is tithing biblical" and into the realm of "why wouldn't I want to invest in what the Lord is doing and make a difference in the world and in my own life?"
February 14, 2015
The most well versed book I have read on giving. In short, giving the tithe shows our attitude of heart towards God. Do we trust Him? Do we believe that we are only stewards? That we are blessed to be a blessing?
The only thing not emphasized enough in the book was our responsibility in scriptures to take care of family first before doing any extra giving (beyond tithe). In several examples, the stories should have emphasized that the extraordinary giving was in response to the author hearing, knowing and obeying the voice of God. The casual Christian may assume that this extraordinary giving is normative without the prompting of God. Tithe first. Period. Take care of family needs. Then see how much you can give out of the abundance God has given you to steward.
The only thing not emphasized enough in the book was our responsibility in scriptures to take care of family first before doing any extra giving (beyond tithe). In several examples, the stories should have emphasized that the extraordinary giving was in response to the author hearing, knowing and obeying the voice of God. The casual Christian may assume that this extraordinary giving is normative without the prompting of God. Tithe first. Period. Take care of family needs. Then see how much you can give out of the abundance God has given you to steward.
February 4, 2014
I wish I could give this book a 10 star rating. A must read book!
March 17, 2019
After the second chapter, I completely gave up on this book. Some very bad theology. Would not recommend.
September 5, 2019
One of my favorite books on what having & growing true wealth means.
November 12, 2019
A good read for any Christian that wants to practice good stewardship.
December 3, 2010
Do you know the feeling of 'I know a lot about this subject' but then you get awestruck by how little understanding you have? How come have I missed these details? I believe that "The Blessed Life" goes far beyond our knowledge of God's faithfulness in terms of finance.
God has blessed us so much economically and it is certainly because He is God, but also because He loves us and wants us to be blessed so that we can bless others.
And if there's something that Pastor Morris has as an advantage is to "live" this blessed life.
It has happened to him and the book is full of testemonies of people who decided to be faithful to God in the tithes and offerings.
In addition, Morris has an eye for detail, analytically investigating aspects of the commitment people from the Bible had with God. For instance, I've always wondered why God liked Abel's offering but not Cain and his offering? It's when then he opens our eyes to check the Abel offered the "firstborn" of his flock. As for Cain,"in the process of time" has offered his. It may not be clear, yet I'd like to emphasize that the "first" part is taken with due respect by God.
Notwithstanding this, the author compares God and our relationship with tithes in terms of a wife. Imagine that God gave you money to take care of His wife. He just wants you to give her 10% of your money. So, suppose that God decides to give you and two other people 100 pounds each and tells you three to take care of His wife by simply giving the 10% of it. If you give 10%, the second person 20% and the third nothing, who do you think He'll bless? Well, God will continue give you 100 pounds, give more for the second and nothing for the third, because he is not taking care of His wife.
It is certain that God doesn't need your money. However, the author says that we are usually tested in the area that we are weak. Judas Iscariotes was in charge of the offerings. Of course Jesus knew he would betray Him, but the money was under Judas' care though.
Furthermore, Pr. Morris gives emphasis to the fact that all tithes AND offerings (BOTH are supposed to be given) must be brought to the "house of God". Some may think that giving the tithes to poor people, or helping others somehow is the correct way to tith. I'm afraid it is not. It is supposed to go to the HOUSE OF GOD.
Last but not least, it is the fact that according to the book "giving is important because it does a supernatural work in our hearts, and that's what God is after - our hearts" (page 196). He even cites the verse that says: "The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him (2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT). Therefore, God is looking for people who are generous so that He can bless to bless others. "God has all the resources of the universe at His disposal... His eyes are roaming Earth, looking for faithful-hearted stewards through whom He can channel millions of dollars into His Kingdom"(page 197).
I do try to write my reviews giving my point of view, yet I think this one would be enriched if I directly cited texts of the book. The next one is: "God owns everything... So, what size gift would impress God? An extravagant gift? YOU" (page 184). I felt tremendously happy when I read this. Firstly, due to the fact that God wants US. Secondly, because we may think that God wants us our money, but He doesn't. He wants US all. Totally in love with Him. Totally devoted to Him. And I never thought I could be an "extravagant" gift. I feel so special.
To draw this review to a close, I'd love to say that on page 183, Pr. Morris attracts our attention to the fact that the "TRUE RICHES" are people - 'the privilege of seeing those you love saved, made whole and growing in God. True riches are the words of knowledge, gifts of healing, faith and miracles that minister to people. True riches are being able to help others who have spent their entire lives in bondage to depression or oppression experience freedom for the first time. The true riches are souls.'
To sum up, the book presents a very detailed understanding of tithes and offerings as well as going beyond the financial terms. I do have a great testimony in my life in terms of tithing and God's great miracles, which is one of the reasons that pushes me to encourage people to be loyal in this area.
Let our hearts bow down to God and... our pockets too, because God is FAITHFUL. I LOVE GOD.
Larissa Fauber
God has blessed us so much economically and it is certainly because He is God, but also because He loves us and wants us to be blessed so that we can bless others.
And if there's something that Pastor Morris has as an advantage is to "live" this blessed life.
It has happened to him and the book is full of testemonies of people who decided to be faithful to God in the tithes and offerings.
In addition, Morris has an eye for detail, analytically investigating aspects of the commitment people from the Bible had with God. For instance, I've always wondered why God liked Abel's offering but not Cain and his offering? It's when then he opens our eyes to check the Abel offered the "firstborn" of his flock. As for Cain,"in the process of time" has offered his. It may not be clear, yet I'd like to emphasize that the "first" part is taken with due respect by God.
Notwithstanding this, the author compares God and our relationship with tithes in terms of a wife. Imagine that God gave you money to take care of His wife. He just wants you to give her 10% of your money. So, suppose that God decides to give you and two other people 100 pounds each and tells you three to take care of His wife by simply giving the 10% of it. If you give 10%, the second person 20% and the third nothing, who do you think He'll bless? Well, God will continue give you 100 pounds, give more for the second and nothing for the third, because he is not taking care of His wife.
It is certain that God doesn't need your money. However, the author says that we are usually tested in the area that we are weak. Judas Iscariotes was in charge of the offerings. Of course Jesus knew he would betray Him, but the money was under Judas' care though.
Furthermore, Pr. Morris gives emphasis to the fact that all tithes AND offerings (BOTH are supposed to be given) must be brought to the "house of God". Some may think that giving the tithes to poor people, or helping others somehow is the correct way to tith. I'm afraid it is not. It is supposed to go to the HOUSE OF GOD.
Last but not least, it is the fact that according to the book "giving is important because it does a supernatural work in our hearts, and that's what God is after - our hearts" (page 196). He even cites the verse that says: "The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him (2 Chronicles 16:9 NLT). Therefore, God is looking for people who are generous so that He can bless to bless others. "God has all the resources of the universe at His disposal... His eyes are roaming Earth, looking for faithful-hearted stewards through whom He can channel millions of dollars into His Kingdom"(page 197).
I do try to write my reviews giving my point of view, yet I think this one would be enriched if I directly cited texts of the book. The next one is: "God owns everything... So, what size gift would impress God? An extravagant gift? YOU" (page 184). I felt tremendously happy when I read this. Firstly, due to the fact that God wants US. Secondly, because we may think that God wants us our money, but He doesn't. He wants US all. Totally in love with Him. Totally devoted to Him. And I never thought I could be an "extravagant" gift. I feel so special.
To draw this review to a close, I'd love to say that on page 183, Pr. Morris attracts our attention to the fact that the "TRUE RICHES" are people - 'the privilege of seeing those you love saved, made whole and growing in God. True riches are the words of knowledge, gifts of healing, faith and miracles that minister to people. True riches are being able to help others who have spent their entire lives in bondage to depression or oppression experience freedom for the first time. The true riches are souls.'
To sum up, the book presents a very detailed understanding of tithes and offerings as well as going beyond the financial terms. I do have a great testimony in my life in terms of tithing and God's great miracles, which is one of the reasons that pushes me to encourage people to be loyal in this area.
Let our hearts bow down to God and... our pockets too, because God is FAITHFUL. I LOVE GOD.
Larissa Fauber
December 4, 2015
Awesome book. This is a must read for anybody who wants to understand how God will and can bless each of us. Even though the majority of the book focuses on financial blessing ,I loved that the author defined being blessed as meaning "having supernatural power working for you." He says that blessing permeates every aspect of a persons life- health, relationships, work, etc. He notes that a blessed man may not be wealthy by the worlds standards. The author talks about giving because you feel you have to and then coming to a place where we give unselfishly with gratitude. Many great points in this book. You must read for yourself to gleam all the little nuggets of gold in this book.
January 28, 2014
This is the most sound, biblical & thought provoking study I've ever read on giving in tithes & offerings. It takes scriptures from the old & New Testament, as well ad this pastors personal experiences of giving & Gods faithfulness to those who give to His kingdom & lays out perfect insight & instructions on how to apply them to your own life. Whether you are someone who doesn't tithe but wants to know why you're supposed to or if you're someone who is a seasoned tither, you will definitely learn a lot & your whole outlook on giving will change.
March 18, 2022
Some good principles about giving are there. I think his personal stories are sincere. I think he left out a very important piece that following Jesus always cost us something. Money or not, it costs. We may give abundantly and then later receive more to give more, or we may give abundantly and deeply sacrifice to do so.
Knowing Jesus is the reward.
Knowing Jesus is the reward.
August 21, 2013
I have been a faithful tither for most of my adult life. This book has challenged me to be a better steward of what I have and what I use to bless others. It also makes me want to listen closer to the Spirit and to learn to obey immediately instead of trying to reason myself out if a blessing.
October 11, 2013
you will discover the 'joy of giving' and the 'reward of recieving'
March 3, 2016
perilously close to prosperity gospel, although I think there was some value in pastor Morris' emphasis on a change of heart, an attitude of generosity.
August 31, 2020
Scripture twisting at its best. The Principle of Multiplication is based on a false exegesis of Luke 9. Stay away from this book and this author.
December 18, 2024
A lot of this book was pretty good, made me think a lot, the testimonies were beautiful and it was definitely convicting! The reason it’s not a 4 or 5 star is because I found it a little bit repetitive towards the end. The first 4 or 5 chapters were stellar but it sort of went downhill from there a bit! I see that the title has also been changed from the whole “guaranteed financial results” title which i think is appropriate for sure. That title makes the book seem like the author is saying we give so we can get. But he spends the ENTIRE book saying the opposite to us. I agree with him fully, it’s the condition of our hearts, the changing of our hearts etc that God cares about. Not our money. Money is just what shows that condition. Overall it was not bad!
December 8, 2019
I was a little (okay, a lot) skeptical of the message of this book. My church started a message series around it and sent us a copy, so I decided to give it a go. I definitely still struggle sometimes in my heart with being a cheerful giver, but I found this book to be overall encouraging about it.
April 11, 2024
I learned so much from this! Pastor Robert is really good at explaining things in a way that anyone can understand.
I learned so much about giving and tithing from this and I’m eager to see how God uses me in these areas moving forward.
I learned so much about giving and tithing from this and I’m eager to see how God uses me in these areas moving forward.
February 14, 2024
Reading this book is like signing up for heart surgery. Takes generosity to a whole new level.
October 14, 2019
I am Blessed
I am learning this is about walking with God and allowing him lead. Too much focus on money takes are mind off God.
I am learning this is about walking with God and allowing him lead. Too much focus on money takes are mind off God.
March 13, 2022
I received this book a week ago today at the first membership class at Gateway Church in Dallas, TX. I hadn't heard of the book before, but I knew Pastor Robert was well-known for his teachings on generosity and giving. I opened the book last Sunday afternoon and read 2/3 of it in one sitting.
Pastor Robert's writing on the topics of tithing, giving, generosity, abundance, and alignment with Kingdom principles of stewardship carry authority. To me, it leapt off the page and resonated with my spirit in a way that observational, arms-length topical teaching cannot. Pastor Robert has walked the walk of obedience and faith in the Lord in this area of money and finances. I do not know many (any) people who have drained every checking, investment, and retirement account in obedience to the Lord not once but three times. Reading his story of following the Lord's leading and instruction is inspiring! Morris testifies to the fruit that obedience has birthed in his life; it's about a changed heart that holds loosely all we have, acknowledging it comes from the Father and, ultimately, causes us to look more like Jesus. The goal isn't, in Morris' words, "giving to get."
I learned this week while discussing this book with friends over the last week that Pastor Morris' teachings on this topic are often conflated with the prosperity gospel. As I had nearly finished his book during these conversations, I was surprised at these comments. Morris' book addresses directly the false teaching of prosperity gospel and distills the difference into the heart motivation for giving. Am I giving to get more (blessing, money, favor, etc.) from God? Or am I giving from obedience, joy, gratitude in overflow for all that the Lord has done for me? Morris contends the true gift of operating in a lifestyle of extravagant giving is the changed heart that comes with it. Are there promises in the Bible regarding sowing and reaping, multiplication, and blessing tied to stewarding our finances in accordance with godly principles? I don't think a well-rounded discussion of Biblical stewardship can ignore these. Perhaps they offend our notions of fairness or make us uncomfortable. I believe the Church at large has ignored topics of financial stewardship in fear of the appearance or accusation of teaching a prosperity message to the great detriment of their congregations.
Morris' book is biblically grounded and a must-read for believers open to experiencing heart change and freedom in their finances.
4.7/5.0.
Pastor Robert's writing on the topics of tithing, giving, generosity, abundance, and alignment with Kingdom principles of stewardship carry authority. To me, it leapt off the page and resonated with my spirit in a way that observational, arms-length topical teaching cannot. Pastor Robert has walked the walk of obedience and faith in the Lord in this area of money and finances. I do not know many (any) people who have drained every checking, investment, and retirement account in obedience to the Lord not once but three times. Reading his story of following the Lord's leading and instruction is inspiring! Morris testifies to the fruit that obedience has birthed in his life; it's about a changed heart that holds loosely all we have, acknowledging it comes from the Father and, ultimately, causes us to look more like Jesus. The goal isn't, in Morris' words, "giving to get."
I learned this week while discussing this book with friends over the last week that Pastor Morris' teachings on this topic are often conflated with the prosperity gospel. As I had nearly finished his book during these conversations, I was surprised at these comments. Morris' book addresses directly the false teaching of prosperity gospel and distills the difference into the heart motivation for giving. Am I giving to get more (blessing, money, favor, etc.) from God? Or am I giving from obedience, joy, gratitude in overflow for all that the Lord has done for me? Morris contends the true gift of operating in a lifestyle of extravagant giving is the changed heart that comes with it. Are there promises in the Bible regarding sowing and reaping, multiplication, and blessing tied to stewarding our finances in accordance with godly principles? I don't think a well-rounded discussion of Biblical stewardship can ignore these. Perhaps they offend our notions of fairness or make us uncomfortable. I believe the Church at large has ignored topics of financial stewardship in fear of the appearance or accusation of teaching a prosperity message to the great detriment of their congregations.
Morris' book is biblically grounded and a must-read for believers open to experiencing heart change and freedom in their finances.
4.7/5.0.
July 10, 2024
I had never heard of Robert Morris prior to picking up this book, which was given to me. The day after I began reading it, I learned of his resignation from Gateway Church due to accusations of misconduct. I decided to finish the book anyway, which challenged me in good ways. The stories he shares are incredible. Sometimes I was left wondering about some of the details of those stories, though I have heard many other stories like them from people I trust. Nothing Pastor Morris presents contradicts Scripture, but often, the theological rationale ends at the “the Lord told me…” There are some clear takeaways on tithing and the basic message is disarmingly simple: give more.
April 23, 2008
I have mixed reactions toward this book. On one hand, I totally understand the purpose of writing this book. Yes, it's important that as Christians we tithe to God. But on the other hand, the author tends to be off-putting. Call me a skeptic, but I have a hard time believing that in the span of 18 months, God gave this guy's family a plethora of cars. And I also find it hard to believe that God wanted this guy to sell his house and give away all of his money. I don't know. I've never known anyone to come away from tithing and giving with such extravagant blessings, but would a church pastor lie? I also didn't like what this guy had to say about WHEN we tithe. What I do is, I know the exact amount I give to church each month, so the first Sunday of every month, that's what I give. Now, in the meantime, I take whatever is left from that and pay bills, buy food, etc. In some instances, I pay bills and buy food before I turn in my tithe check to church just b/c...that's the way my schedule works. I'm not skimping on my tithe when I do it this way b/c I've already set aside money for the tithe. Well, apparently, I'm not doing it right. No matter what, I'm supposed to give my tithe FIRST and THEN worry about paying the bills. Uhm, I like to have my bills paid on time so that it doesn't wreck my credit, but whatevs. I just don't see how it makes much difference doing it my way or this guy's way. I do believe that the more you sow the more you reap and maybe I didn't really like this book b/c I haven't fully trusted my money (God's money) to God, but if God told me to sell my house (I can't b/c I don't own it) and give away all my money (not much to begin with), I dunno that I'd be so quick to comply.
September 9, 2023
Overall, this book has caused me to give more and for that I'm thankful.
HOWEVER- throughout the book I had a constant nagging feeling that something is just "off". I really feel it is misleading from a biblical standing in a few ways. After more review of Scripture and careful thought, here are a few things I was not fond of:
1. The many verses that warn of the dangers of worldly riches are conspicuously absent. Morris seems to think worldly riches are in most cases a sign of God's blessing and that we should welcome them. Jesus often teaches what a great snare and encumbrance they can be and advises us to focus on treasure in heaven. There seems to be a balance advised in the Bible that is very conspicuously absent in this book.
2. While Morris says the goal is to give rather than receive, he sure focuses A LOT on the getting, with focus being mainly monetary. I never sense such a focus when I read my Bible. Many of the verses quoted seem almost bent out of context to guarantee financial riches in return for giving when I think what God intended was spiritual blessing and practice of obedience to be the main ROI .
3. The author talks about himself and how much he gives A LOT. He went beyond his point many times in what seemed countless humble brags. The general theme was more about realizing how much one can "get" from God in a future financial sense - not on a spirit of giving that results in the gospel being furthered and kingdom of God advanced. Honestly, it seems the latter is barely mentioned.
Overall, many things seems off here. I don't feel the book is a balanced view of money in the Bible from my time spent in Scripture.
What would Yoda say? "Strong threads of prosperity gospel, in this book, I sense."
HOWEVER- throughout the book I had a constant nagging feeling that something is just "off". I really feel it is misleading from a biblical standing in a few ways. After more review of Scripture and careful thought, here are a few things I was not fond of:
1. The many verses that warn of the dangers of worldly riches are conspicuously absent. Morris seems to think worldly riches are in most cases a sign of God's blessing and that we should welcome them. Jesus often teaches what a great snare and encumbrance they can be and advises us to focus on treasure in heaven. There seems to be a balance advised in the Bible that is very conspicuously absent in this book.
2. While Morris says the goal is to give rather than receive, he sure focuses A LOT on the getting, with focus being mainly monetary. I never sense such a focus when I read my Bible. Many of the verses quoted seem almost bent out of context to guarantee financial riches in return for giving when I think what God intended was spiritual blessing and practice of obedience to be the main ROI .
3. The author talks about himself and how much he gives A LOT. He went beyond his point many times in what seemed countless humble brags. The general theme was more about realizing how much one can "get" from God in a future financial sense - not on a spirit of giving that results in the gospel being furthered and kingdom of God advanced. Honestly, it seems the latter is barely mentioned.
Overall, many things seems off here. I don't feel the book is a balanced view of money in the Bible from my time spent in Scripture.
What would Yoda say? "Strong threads of prosperity gospel, in this book, I sense."
November 29, 2015
Nothing wrong with the teaching in this book, but it seems to teach the concept..."if you do this, then God will bless you." I don't really have a problem with that and won't criticize because I know that God is so wonderful that He has a very unique and individual relationship with each person that is unlike any other relationship in the universe. That is very special.
I know that God has gifted some people to be incredible givers and that is special too.
I also know that at this point in my life and in my relationship with my Abba Father I am not giving away my house or car and expect God to return it ten fold or whatever. Some in the theological world would say that it's because I don't have enough faith.
Well? According to the good news which Paul called the Gospel of Grace? The only thing I have to have faith in is that the ressurrected Living Christ is alive and well and living inside me and I believe He is making me like He is. I have His spiritual DNA flowing in me. If He gifts me to be a giver like Robert Morris I would be thankful for it.
For any Christian, you should not read this book and think if I do this, I will be abundantly rich. That is too much like law mixed with grace and that isn't good news. Speaking for myself, if Christ's work in me depends on things that I do or steps that I take...you might as well shut the door on me.
I know that God has gifted some people to be incredible givers and that is special too.
I also know that at this point in my life and in my relationship with my Abba Father I am not giving away my house or car and expect God to return it ten fold or whatever. Some in the theological world would say that it's because I don't have enough faith.
Well? According to the good news which Paul called the Gospel of Grace? The only thing I have to have faith in is that the ressurrected Living Christ is alive and well and living inside me and I believe He is making me like He is. I have His spiritual DNA flowing in me. If He gifts me to be a giver like Robert Morris I would be thankful for it.
For any Christian, you should not read this book and think if I do this, I will be abundantly rich. That is too much like law mixed with grace and that isn't good news. Speaking for myself, if Christ's work in me depends on things that I do or steps that I take...you might as well shut the door on me.
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