Do you consider your primary denominational affiliation to be the church in which you were baptized? This is fairly normal since baptism is a sacrament common to all Christians, and it is normally performed soon after salvation. Do you understand that you were not baptized into that church but rather into the Body of Christ as a whole? For my word teaches that there is one body and one faith and one baptism. If for any reason you should leave one church and join another, it isn’t necessary for you to be baptized again. Even though this event happens locally it is an expression of a global concept, and those who perform it should make this clear. 

Do you desire wisdom? Where do you look for it? Everyone is eager to share their thoughts with you. Does it seem that some are too eager, and speak too much and too loud? Do you find wisdom there? I chose my words carefully and used them sparingly. Don’t you find the same trait among those you consider wise? They tend to get a lot of mileage out of a few words and even their silent presence can lend an air of gravity to an otherwise wandering conversation. Have you noticed that I speak in a still small voice? This is where to look for wisdom, and when you find it use the same method to share it with others.  

How do you honor me with your finances? You can start by giving directly into my work in tithes and offerings. I only expect a fraction back of what I have given you. How do you spend the rest? I don’t impose any requirements, but if you ponder this question can you think of ways to spend your money that honor me in contrast to those that don’t? The same applies to the way you earn your money. Do you want your entire life to be an expression of your response to my love? Then the way you spend the money available to you will reflect this influence. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 

Have you ever had anyone be more kind to you than you expected only to find out that they wanted a favor? You call this having an ulterior motive, and you may resent this false pretense as a manipulative trick. Wouldn’t you prefer to have people deal with you in a more straightforward manner? Yet have you ever done this yourself? I get this all the time. People come to me with praise and worship when there is something they really want from me. I already know what is on your mind and am prepared to grant it. If you want to give me honor deal with me in as straightforward a manner as you would be dealt with yourself.