From Dr. Black’s convention report:

So, how was Orlando? Expensive. The seminary very graciously put me up in the Hilton. Not cheap. However, I noticed a nearby Days Inn whose rooms went for half the price. That’s where I spent my second night. Felt good to be able to save the school some money. Besides, little David had something Goliath lacked: An internet terminal in the lobby where guests could check their email.

Thank you, Dr. Black, for the reminder that a Great Commission Resurgence begins with myself. The issue of how to handle such matters is a difficult one, and it is easy to slip into either legalism or license. I don’t pretend to have all the answers. However, I can say that we should continually examine ourselves so that we’re using our money as strategically as possible for the cause of Christ.

A principle I’ve learned is that he who is faithful with the small matters is more likely to be faithful with the large. Something like a hotel room or the cost of dinner may seem trivial, but the way we handle these matters will ultimately reflect how seriously we believe that God cares about every last penny (which He provided in the first place). 

When we’re not directly footing the bill, it’s easy to spend in a more liberal fashion. For those of us who depend on the generosity of others to make a living, this is a continual challenge. And a mindset of “it’s only one night,” or “it’s only one meal” is ultimately what got us into this mess that required a GCR in the first place. The problem is not “out there” but starts with you and me - what will we do about it?