Pennsylvania Conference

Editorial by Carlos Charnichart

It all begins with our mission of “Reaching Everyone, Everywhere.” As Seventh-day Adventists, we are committed to the hope of Christ’s return, and we are passionate about sharing the everlasting gospel to as many people as we can. We believe that we are the last day church, allowing God to take control of every area of our human existence—including our resources. We have been called to live and trust the lordship of Jesus Christ daily (see Prov. 3:5; Luke 12:22). God is empowering our mission through our faithful return of tithes, offerings and other gifts.

“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?’” (John 21:15, NIV).

There is a powerful truth that comes through this passage. For reasons not entirely clear, Peter had returned to fishing. In the days after the resurrection, he was an uncertain and insecure individual. What lay ahead, he didn’t know. In denial and cursing Jesus, Peter utterly failed when Jesus needed him most. He may have even thought that his sin and failure eliminated the possibility of ever being used by God again.

“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee: He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved” (Ps. 55:22, KJV).

The day had been long. The boss was less than kind or fair, I felt. It had been so busy. I was tired and grumpy, feeling sorry for myself. Ungodly thoughts repeatedly raced through my mind, making me feel worse and worse. Have you ever experienced similar days? Or weeks?

The thought came to me, You don’t have to keep making yourself miserable. There’s a much better way. I replaced my negative thought with this reflection:

“The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion” (Prov. 28:1, NIV).

Think of a time when you were scared. What did you do? When I was younger, I went to a camp, and one of the activities was water tubing. Even though I was very excited to try it, I was also very scared. I was so nervous that I got butterflies in my stomach.

“So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please” (Isa. 55:11, NKJV).

As an accountant by profession, I have often counseled my clients, wherever appropriate, to prove God’s Word when it comes to finances. I know this also from personal experience.

Several years ago, I was visiting my former church in New York when a call was made for donations for a special project. I debated whether to respond, as I had only $20 in my wallet. I knew that I would need cash to pay the tolls on my way back home to Pennsylvania. As the appeal continued, I made the decision to respond and gave the $20 bill. I figured I could stop at an ATM later to withdraw funds for the trip home.