Church that invites evangelists and visiting preachers all the time
Here’s my dilemma. I used to attend this church and I was bothered by the number of times they invite visiting preachers and evangelists. In one month, they invite at least two. That means, more collections. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not greedy and I’m all for God’s kingdom. What bothers me is say for example, on the first Sunday of the month, the collection basket is passed 3x. First is the title/offering, then the mission Sunday, and lastly, the love offering for the visiting preacher. My spouse isn’t a believer yet and I’m trying to get him in give his life to Jesus and go to church with me. The problem is, all he sees is that the church only wants money. The preachers also most of the times, testify how God blessed them with houses because they give. There are times when we have to declare blessings about finding cheques in mails, getting gifts, inheritance, promotions, etc.
I love God. I give my tithes and offerings regularly. I give to charity in secret. But I feel “forced” and “coerced” inside to give to the church whenever the collection basket is passed around. It’s like I’m forced to give because they’re watching me. They’re not physically forcing me obviously but I feel like I’ll be judged if I won’t give. There was a time when they were asking for love offering/donation to help pay the church building. We gave $250 which I thought was generous (and it came from my heart). The pastor preached about how God blesses those who give to his kingdom. Then, proceeded to give an example of one of the old ladies who have $1,000. Then, he said that it would be such a blessing if everyone gave a thousand each.
Because of that, I stopped going to church. I feel bad not going to church but I feel uncomfortable with the financial matters. This is the only church available and close to me. What do you think of my situation?