webmaster posted on October 29, 2010 12:48
Forest Heights Baptist Church in Oxon Hill, Maryland is not afraid to take chances in the name of Christ. Starting in February, 2010, the church and its pastor, Waymond Duke, began planning for the 90/10 Challenge to be observed on August 22, 2010. This emphasis asked each church member to reverse their tithe for one week, keeping 10% and giving 90% to God through their church. By planning so far ahead, many would be able to begin saving for the event. Others might not be able to participate financially, but were encouraged to surround the emphasis with prayer. The goal was less a financial one than a spiritual one; when God’s children work to put God first in their lives, blessings are sure to follow. As Pastor Waymond wrote, “This is not about how much money our church can get from each of us, but rather how much we are willing to sacrifice to give for God’s glory.”
Forest Heights is a small congregation, averaging only about 56 on a normal Sunday. Many are retired on fixed income. Pastor Waymond came to the church in November, 2009. He sensed a willingness in the congregation to follow God’s leadership, but the people needed a focus point. Thus the 90/10 Challenge was born.
After months of prayerful preparation, including revival services the previous weekend, August 22 finally arrived. On the day of the 90/10 Challenge, there were about 50 present and the offering was $16,672.96, compared with a usual August Sunday total of about $3,500. As Pastor Waymond said, “For this to have been a success only required that those who felt led of God to participate did so as they were able. This was never about seeing how much money could be brought into the church; instead it was about how much we love God and how much we are willing to give Him control over everything we have. Yes, that even includes our finances. It should encourage us to be determined to try to give more for God’s work, not because we have to but because we realize that it pleases God and allows others to find God’s grace through the things we help support. Surely God will equip us if we are just willing to say, ‘Here is everything I have, Lord. Use it as You see fit.’”