Dollars and $ense 2 // An Attitude for Giving
God Rewards Financial Faithfulness
Matthew 25:21 (NIV) | [The] master replied, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”
Money is the acid test of your faithfulness.
Rewards of Faithfulness:
- The law of Compensation: God rewards you for wise stewardship
- The Law of Promotion: God rewards responsibility with more responsibility
Matthew 6:24 (NIV) | Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Money is a terrific servant but a terrible master.
When it comes to giving, God is much more interested in what’s in your heart than what’s in your wallet. What he really wants is your willingness, not your wealth.
Jesus’ teaching on the widow’s offering (Luke 21:1-4)
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NIV) | Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Four Attitudes for Giving:
- Give Thoughtfully
- Give Enthusiastically
- Give Voluntarily
- Give Cheerfully
God’s greatest concern is your heart.
Reflection Questions:
- If God audited your finances, what grade would you receive?
- When has your money mastered you? When have you mastered your money? What were the differences in your relationship with God during those times?
- God wants you to give thoughtfully, enthusiastically, voluntarily, and cheerfully. Which of these attitudes is most difficult for you? Which is easiest for you? Why?
- What is a healthy, proper way to respond to situations where you feel pressured to give?
- What is God doing in your heart through your current giving habits and choices?
