One of the most critical aspects of faithfulness is obedience. Partial and delayed obedience is still disobedience. We can live with purpose as much as we decide to walk in obedience to God's word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Obedience is simple, but it's not easy!

Purpose isn't just something we pursue and fulfill; it’s a gift that the Gospel brings into our lives. We don't have to chase it; we can begin right where we are. In its simplest form, purpose means to "bring glory to God and enjoy Him forever." Let's learn how to start where we are with faithfulness.

Let'd de-compartmentalize our worship. Deuteronomy tells us to bring "everything" to the temple. Paul echoes that we are to offer our entire life to God as a living sacrifice in an act of worship. We should see our opportunities to give as an opportunity to worship. What we worship determines what we hold onto the tightest and what has the tightest hold on us. 

In the New Testament, most giving is regarded as generosity. In 2nd Corinthians 8 and 9, Paul challenges the church to excel in the ministry of generous giving. He points to the "poor Macedonians" as an example of generosity. If we are not careful, we will see our generosity fueled by the amount we can safely give and the reward we seek. But generosity is best driven by a joyful attitude and a step of faith. 

Are New Testament Christians obligated to give tithes? Before it was a law to follow, tithes were given as an act of faith and in response to God's goodness. Jesus affirmed the tithe but emphasized the heart. It's not really about money but about our hearts. Today, giving is a way to show that we are placing God first in our finances. 

Everything belongs to the Lord. He has entrusted us with everything we have. He is our source and supply. Do we put it to good use or spend and bury it out of selfishness and fear? The amount we have and the actions we take in faithfulness reflect our hearts and test our trust. Let's accept the challenge of using what we've been given well. 

Many voices are speaking to us. How do we know it's the voice of the Shepherd and not my voice, something I heard somewhere else, or even worse...the enemy's voice? Take time to listen and test what you hear against scripture. Ultimately, you will know it is the voice of the Good Shepherd if it leads you closer to him, even in the midst of a storm. 

As we celebrate Avenue Church's fourth anniversary, we want to ensure we are clear on our mission. The reason we exist is more important than what we do. 

We want to help you know and follow Jesus, in community for a transformed life. 

Sometimes, the hustle and bustle of life can make it tricky to hear God's voice. Yet, He is always communicating with us, whether through Scripture or other gentle reminders. His voice often comes as a gentle whisper, inviting us to listen closely. This week, we'll explore ways to tune out the noise and truly hear God's whispers in our hearts. 

Learning to listen to God's voice is our most significant ability as believers. It's simple but not always easy. We'll learn from Samuel, the last judge of Israel, how he grew in listening to and following God's voice.