Sermon
Investing Yourself
Theme
Using our time, talent, and money to glorify God.
Object
Offering envelope or some item that would be an example of a church fundraiser or mission activity.
Scripture
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17 (NIV)
Activities + Resources
Hold up the collection container, a card with a total Dollar amount written or any other example that shows what your church supports in missions. (Example: We had our children from our children worship service collect money for the Tsunami Relief efforts. Then the money was given to UMCOR to supply them with blankets, health kits etc. I showed a container and had the total dollar amount written on a card to demonstrate) Or ask what is it that the church does to help other people? (Examples: give food to the food pantry, volunteer in soup kitchen, etc)
Ask the children How did we go about getting this money? (Allow answers) Tell the children: "When you really look at this money or even your talents, do you know it comes from God?" "What would your money be worth if you didn't use it for anything? (Nothing) "What would your talent be worth if you didn't use it for anything? (Nothing)
Now I know that we use our money and out talents to survive here on Earth. God wants us to have those things, but what are other ways that we can use our money and talents for God? Allow for a variety of answers.
Prayer : Dear Lord, Help us to use , our money and our talents, in ways You would have us use them. Amen.
