Introduction to Risky Business Podcast
The transcript begins by introducing a podcast named Risky Business, hosted by Sam, which focuses on interviews with successful individuals from diverse backgrounds. A common theme emerges: each guest shares a pivotal moment where a calculated risk led to success or failure.
Theme of Calculated Risks
Definition of Risk: Exposing oneself to the possibility of unpleasant or unwelcome outcomes.
Guests' Experiences:
Reflect on various stories, including Todd, Karen, Lindsay, and Roger, who each took different risks in their professional and personal lives.
Sam notes a recurring statement from guests: "The biggest risk is not taking a risk." This implies that failing to act can often pose a greater risk than taking a leap of faith.
Categories of Risks Discussed
Personal Stories of Risk
Todd: Invested all his money in AI companies.
Karen & Lindsay: Left stable jobs after 15 years to start a dream store with 75 vendors.
Clark: Sacrificed a traditional high school life for swimming, which resulted in becoming a national champion and Olympic athlete.
Roger: Quitted a lackluster job to pursue something fulfilling, eventually employing over 2,000 people.
Dave's Personal Experience: Sharing the story of asking his wife out, which led to a 40-year marriage and a reflection on how his life might differ if he hadn't taken that risk.
Invitation to Explore Risks
Encouragement to explore spiritual and financial risks, specifically in the context of tithing.
Core Premise: “90% with God will always go further than 100% on my own.”
Understanding Tithing
Definition and Importance of Tithing
Tithing as a Percentage:
Tithing refers to giving a tenth (10%) of one’s income back to God.
Scriptural Reference: Leviticus 27:30: "A tithe of everything from the land… belongs to the Lord. It is holy to the Lord."
Tithing as a Priority:
Successful entrepreneurs prioritize their expenditures based on vision and necessity.
Scriptural Reference: Proverbs 3:9: "Honor the Lord with the first fruits of all your crops."
Giving should be intentional and prioritized over last-minute leftover amounts.
Tithing Includes a Promise:
Encouragement to test God with tithing. The only instance in the Bible where God invites testing occurs in Malachi 3:10, where God promises to bless those who tithe.
Malachi 3:8-10: Challenging believers about robbing God and inviting them to experience abundant blessings.
Excuses for Not Tithing
Common Arguments Against Tithing
Old Testament vs. New Testament:
Some argue that tithing is an outdated concept, yet Jesus affirmed tithing in his teachings (Luke 11:42, Matthew 23).
Focus on Financials Over Other Spiritual Matters:
Contrary to accusations, financial discipline reflects spiritual priorities (Matthew 6:21).
Affordability Issues:
The belief that tithing is unaffordable may stem from poor financial management. Emphasis on living within means and creating budgets.
Real-Life Applications of Tithing
Anecdotes and Personal Experiences
Story of Generosity: Example at Waffle House where a friend named Bob exemplified spontaneous generosity through tithing.
Pastor's Personal Reflection: The importance of living generously and feeling fulfilled through acts of giving.
Jeff Knabel's Journey: From tithing before salvation leading to a commitment to Christianity, emphasizing how financial discipline can draw one closer to God.
Conclusion
Call to Action
A challenge for listeners to embrace tithing as part of their faith journey, understanding it as more than just a financial transaction but a declaration of trust in God.
Emphasis on the joy, fulfillment, and adventure found in giving, with encouragement to begin or deepen personal tithing practices.
Prayer and Community Support
Encouragement for students and listeners to step into faith and generosity through giving with the promise that God will meet their needs.