Test Me In This

Jeff and Carolyn Shadwick found their way to CityRise Church through a simple, yet intentional search for community and authentic connection. Prior to marrying Carolyn, Jeff was looking for a neighborhood church that wasn't a megachurch. He landed at West U Baptist because of the genuine welcome he received at the front door by multiple members. Jeff has developed deep connections with people who he has been worshipping and discipling with now for twenty years. He says plainly, "I would never leave them. I would never go anywhere else."

Single and fresh out of college when she first came, Carolyn shared a similar desire to find a church where she could be known but found the larger churches in Houston weren’t fitting what her heart wanted. She was excited to discover community and connection at CityRise West U Baptist.

The Power of the Two Pillars: Fellowship and Missions

The Shadwicks believe the purpose of giving is clearly defined by two pillars: Fellowship and Missions. They know that their financial support ensures that the church can extend the gospel to the corners of the earth while simultaneously providing the meaningful, sustaining fellowship that they both rely on.

Carolyn adds that this life of fellowship is about having a "sense of obligation" to give back the same grace and connection they received. She recounts times when her "friendships multiplied back to me when I needed them," encouraging her to be the same supportive person for others.

The Malachi Challenge: Test Me Now

Jeff offers a powerful, biblically grounded challenge to anyone struggling with generosity. He highlights the unique invitation given by God in Malachi 3 where God specifically tells His people to test Him in the area of giving and see if He will not “throw open the floodgates” of blessing. (Malachi 3:6-12)

Jeff notes that God doesn't issue this challenge about anything else, knowing that we especially cling to our money. And Carolyn’s personal testimony confirms this promise from God. "I've never once seen the Lord fail,” she says. “When I personally gave more of whatever it was that I had to give, I have received abundantly more; just multiplied so much more than what I've ever given."

The Shadwicks’ story is a reminder that Christian giving is an investment guaranteed to return abundantly, not just financially, but also by multiplying the fellowship and support system we need most.