How can we apply the widow's example of giving in our daily lives? A Heart That Captures Jesus’ Attention Mark 12:43: “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others who are contributing to the treasury.” • Jesus measures giving by sacrifice, not size. • The widow’s two small coins outweighed large sums because they represented her whole trust in God. • Our focus shifts from “How much?” to “How much of me?” Tithing and Total Trust • Tithing remains a starting point (Malachi 3:10), but the widow shows that God values willing surrender over bare percentages. • 2 Corinthians 9:7 reminds us that cheerful, voluntary giving pleases Him. • Her example invites us to move from obligation to overflow. Giving Beyond Money • Finances matter, yet Romans 12:1 broadens the call: “present your bodies as living sacrifices.” • Time, skills, hospitality, listening ears, and acts of service can be “two mites” that carry eternal weight. • Generosity becomes a lifestyle, not a line item. Practical Ways to Live the Widow’s Example – Start each week asking, “Where can I give that stretches my faith today?” – Set aside a discreet “widow’s fund” in your budget for Spirit-prompted opportunities (meals, missionaries, single parents). – Give first and plan the rest of your spending around it rather than the reverse. – Offer talents: tutor a child, fix a neighbor’s car, lead worship—even when you feel time-poor. – Practice hidden giving: anonymous gifts train the heart to seek God’s notice, not applause. – Involve family: let children place the offering or choose a charity so generosity becomes normal conversation at home. – Celebrate testimonies of God’s provision; they reinforce trust for the next step of faith. Promises That Fuel Radical Generosity • Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you… For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” • Philippians 4:19: “And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” These assurances free us to release what we hold, confident the Father already holds us. |
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