Robbie and Connie Schilhab married early during their college days at Texas A&M. Connie was working full time “so they could eat” while Robbie attended school. Though they made only $200 a month, having grown up in the faith, Connie suggested to Robbie that if they tithed on her “puny” salary they would see provision and blessing from the Lord. “He said ok, we'll try it,” said Connie. And they have never looked back.

The Lord provided in interesting ways during those lean college years. He provided extra scholarships, money here and there, and upon graduation, a wonderful, stable job and career.

They have never stopped tithing. “God has always blessed us and we have never been unemployed or gone through financial hard times,” said Connie. “Sometimes, those things are hard to understand — why some and not others —but God's ways are higher.”

Robbie retired a couple of years ago after 36 years with the same company and the couple joined Houston’s First a year ago in January. When they learned about MISSION 1:8, the generosity initiative, they prayed about what God would have them give. They decided to give above their tithe.

Last summer, the Schilhabs went on a Houston’s First mission trip to New York City. The experience made a huge impact on their lives, and they continue to find ways to assist others when God calls.

“We've decided it's really not our money anyway, so when we see a need inside or outside the church — like maybe a kid going to camp — God has given money to us to give to others,” said Connie.

Connie says the Scripture, Luke 6:38, seems to sum up their lives:

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

“The more we give,” she said, “it seems like the more our blessings multiply for us to continue sharing with others.”