October 29
Jesus often talks about generosity lasting forever and how our earthly possessions are temporary. So does that mean you shouldn't invest in a retirement account or plan for the future? I don't think so, but I also think we need to let our eternal mindset impact our immediate generosity.
Three Thoughts
Jesus says moths, rust, thieves, etc can destroy our earthly possessions. He's talking about how fragile they are so we shouldn't bet our heart on them. We should invest where nothing rusts and nobody can break in instead.
MATTHEW 6:19-20
It seems like heaven keeps records of how generous we are on earth, even when the people around us may forget. Nothing given in love is ever lost.
LUKE 12:33
Paul's advice to wealthy people is really simple: do good, be rich in good works, be generous, be ready to share. Money should help us serve other people. That's how you build a foundation that holds.
1 TIMOTHY 6:18-19
Two Quotes
Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer on generosity:
“Earthly goods are given to be used, not to be collected.”
Author C.S. Lewis on what you really own:
“Nothing that you have not given away will ever be really yours.”
Prayer
Dear God, I spend so much energy protecting things that won't last. Today I ask that you would turn my heart towards you and teach me how to be generous with what I do have. Every dollar has the chance to turn into something greater in your economy. In Jesus' name, amen.
Question
Ten years from now, what will you wish you had given away sooner?
P.S. My next book, How to Be a Christian, comes out August 24th, 2027. I'm head down working on the next round of edits, additional design, marketing, everything that goes into launching a book. If you've ever wondered how to live out your faith on a random Tuesday, this book is for you!