When I don't know what to do

Today I had a moment where I didn't know what to do. I know that you never have those, so please be gracious to me as I share. I believe that the Bible is our standard for living, and though I don't think I have corner on what it all means exactly, I do feel strongly about many things that it teaches. Sometimes though, I fall into areas that are not spelt out for me. How do I manage these encounters? Today's dilemma was about tithing. Recently the budget at SRC has changed, and in the aftermath my compensation has changed (although it has not gone up nor down) But my Salary has changed and I'm facing questions about my tithe. What did I do today, when I didn't know what to do, how to understand the teachings in the Bible. I thought it might help someone else to know what I do.

I sort it out through a number of channels. First I prayed about it, but I didn't ask God for the answer. I asked him to help me find the answer. Then I called my shepherd, my friend Phil. (I guess he's my shepherd like the stray dog who follows you around hoping scraps will fall off your plate. Meaning, I'm not sure if he chose me, but I've chosen him.) He shared with me his best counsel. Then I turned to my director, that's my father. When he thinks about a subject he has almost perfect performance (as Buckingham would say) at giving direction. Later this month I'll take it to my coach, and I may even bounce it off some friends of mine that I feel have particular insight into the area of finances and stewardship. Then I take that counsel, and compile it in prayer. Knowing that I've done my best to let the Spirit of God speak to me through the voices of the body of Christ around me and the voice of the Spirit inside me.

That's it. That's what I do. I try to perform for an audience of One. I think he's pleased with this approach.

For what it's worth,

--Ben