Embracing Breakthrough: The Power of Faithful Giving and Expectant Hearts

Today marks the conclusion of an incredible journey at my church—a six-week series titled "Breakthrough." Focused on the transformative power of sacrificial giving, this series invited us to step into the challenge of tithing as a means of reaching collective goals and experiencing personal miracles in our lives. For many of us, including myself, this challenge brought forth both excitement and anxiety.

As we reflect on our own journeys, it’s essential to explore what faithful giving looks like and how we can position ourselves to receive God’s blessings in our lives.

The Challenge of Sacrificial Giving  

Pastor John spoke passionately about how God honors our willingness to give sacrificially. Tithing has never been a consistent practice in my life. While I didn’t harbor negativity towards it, I had not fully embraced it as a priority. But through the “Breakthrough” series, Richie (my husband) and I made a commitment to a “scary to us”  amount—a pledge calculated based on our incomes, acknowledging the faith it would take to fulfill it.

The fear of the unknown is a powerful force. Many of us can relate to living paycheck to paycheck, feeling the weight of financial strain, or worrying about meeting basic needs. Yet, stepping out in faith can propel us toward breakthroughs we’ve only hoped for.

Trusting God’s Provision  

Scripture is abundant with promises of God’s provision. Philippians 4:19 assures us, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” This reminder is crucial, especially when we dare to commit to giving more than we think we can afford. As we adhere to this truth, we learn to trust God’s ability to meet our needs as we step into His plan for our lives.

In my journey, I felt a nudge from God during service, urging me to give even more—25% of each custom shirt sale I make over the next two years (a fun side gig of mine!). As I pondered this commitment, I questioned whether I could be doing more. Was giving 25% a true sacrifice? Was I being selfish? These are the kinds of questions that often plague us when we decide to stretch our faith and act upon it.

Expecting Miracles  

During the service, we sang the powerful song “More Than Able,” and the lyrics struck a chord within me: “Why do I talk myself out of seeing miracles?” How often do we limit our expectations of God? If we truly believe He is capable of doing more than we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20), then why do we hesitate to fully surrender?

Expecting miracles requires a heart postured in faith. We must be willing to lay down our fears and limitations, allowing God to work in our lives beyond what we can fathom. In these next two years, I’m choosing to step into this "Breakthrough" season with high expectations of divine intervention in my life.

A Prayer for Surrender and Clarity  

As I sit in prayer, I find myself asking for God’s guidance: “Father, thank you for being a God who performs miracles. Help me to stay expectant and ready to receive from You. Teach me to differentiate between my wants and my needs, so I can truly surrender all to You.”

James 1:5 encourages us with the promise, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach.” Our prayers for clarity and guidance can illuminate the way as we navigate our financial commitments and overall purpose.

In Conclusion: The Joy of Giving  

As we journey together, I want to encourage every woman inspired by the "Breakthrough" series and other similar experiences. Embrace your calling to give, even when it feels uncomfortable! When we act in faith, surrendering our fears and expectations to God, we position ourselves to witness profound change—not only in our lives but in the lives of those around us.

Let’s celebrate the miracles that God will manifest, big and small, as we engage wholeheartedly with Him. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Surround yourself with a community of like-minded women, share your struggles and victories, and pray together.

As we embark on this new chapter, may we all hold fast to the belief that our God is more than able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine!