Whether you heard the message from Sunday or are part of one of our “What’s Next” groups at Venture, here’s a way for you to go deeper.
this week's next steps
This week's study
When we think of giving, our minds often jump to material resources—money, gifts, or donations. Yet the call to radical service asks for something deeper: the offering of our very selves. Time, talent, and resources are all entrusted to us, not simply for our own benefit, but to be vessels of God’s love to others. True generosity is measured by our willingness to serve when it costs us comfort, convenience, or recognition. Radical service is about presence, not just provision. It’s about being available, showing up, and using what we’ve been uniquely given to meet real needs in our community and beyond.
Each of us holds gifts that go beyond our ability to invest financially. A listening ear, a skill honed through years of work, a few uninterrupted hours—these are all sacred offerings when given in the service of others. The world doesn’t just need more money thrown at problems; it needs people willing to be present, to build relationships, to offer healing through their time and talents. This year, let us not compartmentalize our lives, keeping our skills and passions separate from our faith. Instead, may we allow God to weave our gifts into His greater story of restoration, using even the simplest acts of service to reflect His generous heart.
May we find joy not only in what we give, but in how we give—freely, intentionally, and with eyes open to the needs right in front of us.
Each of us holds gifts that go beyond our ability to invest financially. A listening ear, a skill honed through years of work, a few uninterrupted hours—these are all sacred offerings when given in the service of others. The world doesn’t just need more money thrown at problems; it needs people willing to be present, to build relationships, to offer healing through their time and talents. This year, let us not compartmentalize our lives, keeping our skills and passions separate from our faith. Instead, may we allow God to weave our gifts into His greater story of restoration, using even the simplest acts of service to reflect His generous heart.
May we find joy not only in what we give, but in how we give—freely, intentionally, and with eyes open to the needs right in front of us.
Questions to Consider:
- Which of the three—time, talent, or resources—is most difficult for you to give away freely? What makes that specific area feel harder to surrender?
- Many people separate their professional skills or hobbies from their spiritual life. How can you use a specific "talent" to serve this year?
- Reflect on a time someone gave you their undivided time or used their specific skills to help you. How did that personal investment change your perspective?
- Look at the community around you. Where is there a gap that cannot be filled by money alone, but requires someone’s physical presence or expertise?
- If you were to audit your "time" and "talents" this week, what is one small portion of either that you could intentionally re-allocate toward serving someone else?
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