But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where
neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal;
Insights: God’s retirement plan is—Invest in ME, you won’t be
sorry! Yesterday, I referenced an article
from Crown Financial Ministries. Let me
return to it again and give you a Believers answer to money. “The first is an obvious one -- stop
borrowing. ‘The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous is
gracious and giving’ (Psalm 37:21). Borrowing isn't God's best for His
people. Next, start saving. ‘Precious
treasure and oil are in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man consumes
them’ (Proverbs 21:20). Today, spending and borrowing are promoted, and
saving is discouraged. God's principles promote saving for future needs, not
borrowing or using credit. Then, avoid hasty
decisions, and ignore the ‘buy now, before it's too late’ pitches. ‘The plans
of the diligent certainly lead to profit, but anyone who is reckless only
becomes poor’ (Proverbs 21:5). One of the best disciplines parents can teach
their children is to work and save to reach a goal. While these are simple steps, often excessive
indebtedness makes life difficult. That's why it's so important to develop and
live by a budget -- a financial plan. ‘Poverty and disgrace [come to] those
who ignore instruction, but the one who accepts rebuke will be honored’
(Proverbs 13:18). Christian families
that live by sound biblical financial principles will demonstrate financial
freedom for their children and help them grow up with the knowledge of how they
should live by God's principles. With
consistent teaching and discipline it could take less than a generation to
break the financial bondage under which so many Christians live. And, it would
free them to fund the work of the Lord. After all, that's what Jesus is talking
about in Matthew 6:33, ‘Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,
and all these things will be provided for you.’” Did you catch the line about funding the work
of the Lord? Why do you think God gives
you pay raises and good jobs? Is it
really for you to buy the next greatest toy?
Obviously not! He desires you to
surrender your heart to Him and serve Him with your finances. God wants His money to go toward the
evangelistic pursuits of His heart, which are reaching the lost for Jesus. Beloved, SERVE HIM!
Questions:
- Are you on an intentional plan to become debt free in
order to be a better steward for God with His money?
- If I were to look at your bank transactions, would it
be a testimony for you as one who is choosing the believers answer to
money?
Prayer: Lord, You are
the Owner and I am the steward. Work within
my heart to make it properly desire You and Your will as opposed to my selfish,
self-seeking will. Let me start today to
honor You with my finances. Amen.
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