"What should we do then?" the crowd asked. John answered, "The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same."
Tax collectors also came to be baptized. "Teacher," they asked, "what should we do?" "Don't collect any more than you are required to," he told them.
Then some soldiers asked him, "And what should we do?" He replied, "Don't extort money and don't accuse people falsely—be content with your pay." Luke 3:10-14
Observations: John’s preaching moved people to a point of decision—“What should we do?” In his preaching he called the people to demonstrate fruit (proof) that their repentance was genuine. When pressed, he challenged them in the area of their finances: give generously, exercise integrity, live contentedly. Pretty fruitful money tree. It’s worth noting that when the LORD challenged His people to return to Him, he began with them getting their financial priorities in order (see Malachi 3:7-12).
Application: In the face of God’s provision, how could I not demonstrate the generosity, integrity and contentment called for in this passage? 2 Corinthians 8:7 challenges me to “excel in this grace of giving.” Regardless of where I am, there's always room to grow. So, what should I do? In general:
1. Look for ways to be generous.
2. Guard my integrity in the area of my finances.
3. Cultivate contentment by living below my means.
Specifically, when presented with a choice to spend, seek a less costly alternative, and give the savings to back to God. After all, it all belongs to Him. He is the Owner. I am His steward.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I realize that money is a trust, a tool, and a test. How I handle it may be the most consistent way to gauge the condition of my heart. I You were to measure my heart change today, what would my wallet tell You? Help me not to be content to feel like I’ve arrived in this area. Help me grow—excel—in this grace of giving.
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3 comments:
These are some sweet journal entries ... I've kind of lost that discipline over the last few years, but I see how this could be a productive one, as you read Scripture and ask yourself, what does this passage require of me?
"Yes, every man is a fool who gets rich on earth but not in heaven." Luke 12:21 (Living)
Put your treasure in the right place. A study of Luke 12 will help you see your earthly possessions from God's point of view.
Great thoughts on the heart of financial stewardship rather than just the practice of financial stewardship.
Side note - Your last 3 posts were after 8AM. Do you need more rest in your old age? Ha Ha
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