Money matters

1 Corinthians 16:2

2 On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.

When it comes to your money the first priority is understanding that it's not your money.
I have the advantage of talking about it while not asking you specifically for it. While you may be put off by your pastor talking about it, the Apostle Paul wrote it.

Money matters and your pastor deserves to be paid for what he does. Many have abused this right by making themselves rich off the charity of others. This does not excuse your disobedience regarding the matter however.

One the first day of the week.... Paul says the first thing you need to do is set aside the money you have determined to give to God and His purposes. Your church should not have to do fundraisers to simply meet budget. As you prosper, you should set aside the fruit of this prospering.

You will fail at this. You will think of the bigger television, the bigger barns, the bigger house, and the bigger belly (at least the food you want to put in it while crossing your fingers from outward appearance it remains sleak and stylish) you desire. You will likely forget God and remember yourself.

God's grace can cover even this sin and if you are in Christ you're seen as though you have always set aside the first fruits of your labors and never withheld that which ought to be devoted solely to Jesus.

However, we ought to make every effort to give and to remember to make priority of opportunities God places before us to give and show charity and generosity.

Do this because God has in Christ given you everything and not withheld any good thing. Do this because you want to and you get to, not because you have to. You do not have to give in order for God to give to you. He gave when you were selfish.

In light of this, now give yourself and what is "yours" to others and to Him.