Episode 102: Provident Living

Hey guys, this was the first podcast I listened to and I really enjoyed it :)

I know that a lot goes into producing a podcast, and you guys are doing a great job. But in the spirit of discussion - toward the end you guys hit a nerve for me. It seems to be a prevalent attitude in the church that - yes, we have welfare . . . but you better not use it!! If we read and understand King Benjamin and Jesus Christ, this should not be our attitude. Let us live in a spirit of charity without regard to whether or not the recipient deserves it.

It might appear to you or me or anyone else that someone asking for help is just lazy or irresponsible or greedy. But we don't know what is going on behind closed doors and a sparkly appearance doesn't tell the whole story. If the person is truly 'gaming the system' they will be held accountable. For us, as members of the church and followers of Christ, we have an obligation to say 'yes we will help you, no we won't judge you'.

The last thing here . . . when we rant about "undeserving" members using church welfare there are some members of the church who may be in need but hesitate to ask because of fear of judgement by fellow members. That thought makes me sad. I am a full tithe paying church member. When I pay my fast offering it is with the prayerful hope that people who need help will be helped. If I have brothers and sisters going without because of shame, it makes me think that as the body of Christ we are missing the point. Love and Charity.

I am truly not trying to be high and mighty here - just trying to have the discussion.

BTW, the second episode I listed to was the sampling of Hymns Anew and I was uplifted! Good on ya!

Hey Guys,

I just started listening to your Podcast from the beginning episode. So im about 3 years behind, but so far I like what I hear. Funny to hear you talk about being excited for the release of the iphone.

By the way, Paul from Southern Alberta (Canada in case you dont know where that is)

Welcome Paul! Glad to have a new listener north of the border. We recently returned from a period of 'inactivity' but plan to keep churning out new episodes on a monthly basis. Thanks again for listening.

I just found your podcast and have enjoyed the "Volume 2" episodes so far. I particularly liked hearing your thoughts on debt in this episode. I feel many people have grown particularly interested in debt issues given the decisions made in congress lately. I have found many members, including myself, follow Dave Ramsey's get out of debt plan. He is not a church member but he follows the church's position of staying out of debt and strongly promotes tithing as well. I just thought he might be worth mentioning if anyone is looking for specific guidance on the subject of debt. (Fyi, I am not at all associated with the Ramsey network. I just enjoy his book and podcast.)

Yeah, Dave Ramsey does have a lot of good principles for debt management. Interestingly, I drive by his offices quite often! They're based here in Tennessee and I see billboards, church signage, and other promotional materials as I travel Middle Tennessee. We may have a continuation of this discussion in the future and his ideas would definitely be a good place to start.

Thanks for listening!
-- Brother Sean