How can we balance generosity to others with honoring Jesus, as in Matthew 26:9? Setting the Scene Matthew 26:9 records the disciples’ protest: “For this perfume could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” They reacted to Mary’s extravagant anointing of Jesus (vv. 6–13). Jesus responds by commending her devotion and clarifying priorities. Key Observations from the Passage • Mary’s act was intentional, timely, and costly. • The disciples’ concern for the poor sounded noble, yet Jesus exposed a misplaced focus. • Jesus affirms ongoing care for the needy: “You will always have the poor with you” (v. 11), while marking His impending death as a singular moment requiring special honor. Biblical Principles for Balancing Generosity and Honor 1. Christ First, Always • Colossians 3:17—“And whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” • Mary’s gift teaches that worship of Jesus takes precedence over every good work. 2. Ongoing Compassion Is Not Neglected • Deuteronomy 15:11; Acts 4:34–35 demonstrate that the faithful continually meet the needs of the poor. • Jesus’ words do not dismiss benevolence; they situate it under supreme devotion to Him. 3. Motive Matters More Than Amount • 2 Corinthians 9:7—“God loves a cheerful giver.” • Mary’s motive was love; Judas’s (John 12:6) was greed masked as charity. 4. Timing and Spirit-Led Sensitivity • Ecclesiastes 3:1—there is “a time for every purpose.” • The Spirit may prompt moments of extraordinary worship giving, distinct from regular almsgiving. Practical Ways to Live the Balance • Set a Regular Giving Plan – Tithes or first-fruits to honor God (Proverbs 3:9). – Budgeted generosity to people in need (1 Timothy 5:8; James 2:15-16). • Stay Open to Special Acts of Devotion – Mission projects, church worship enhancements, or personal offerings that magnify Christ can be Spirit-prompted “Mary moments.” • Evaluate Heart and Stewardship Together – Ask: Is this gift exalting Jesus or elevating self? – Ensure essential family and ministry responsibilities are not ignored (1 Timothy 5:8). • Practice Accountability – Share financial plans with a trusted believer or elder board to guard against imbalance. Safeguards to Keep Devotion and Charity Aligned • Scripture Saturation—let passages like Matthew 6:33 guide priorities. • Prayerful Discernment—seek the Lord before large or unusual gifts. • Grateful Remembrance—review how God has provided so generosity flows from worship, not guilt. Takeaway True balance is found when every gift—whether to the poor or directly in worship—springs from a heart captivated by Jesus. Honor Him first, listen for His leading, and generosity to others will naturally follow. |
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