In what ways can we honor Jesus with our resources today? A Costly Fragrance and an Eternal Lesson “When the disciples saw this, they were indignant and asked, ‘Why this waste?’” (Matthew 26:8) The woman’s perfume was worth a laborer’s year of wages. Her act teaches that honoring Jesus may look extravagant to onlookers but delights the Lord when done in faith and love. Give Generously and Lavishly • Proverbs 3:9 — “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • 2 Corinthians 9:6–7 — “God loves a cheerful giver.” Ways today: – Tithing from every paycheck before other spending. – Giving special offerings when the Spirit nudges, even when the amount feels costly. – Supporting missionaries, Bible translation, crisis relief, adoption funds. Put Jesus First, Not Appearances • Colossians 1:18 — “So that in all things He may have the preeminence.” • Matthew 6:1–4 — Give so quietly that only the Father sees. Practical steps: – Budget with Christ’s priorities at the top line, not leftover change. – Re-evaluate purchases that serve ego more than Kingdom purpose. Bless the Poor while Honoring Christ • Matthew 25:40 — “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.” • James 2:15–16 — Faith must meet tangible needs. Serve by: – Stocking church food pantries. – Covering rent or utilities for struggling believers. – Sponsoring children through reputable Christian organizations. Offer Time and Skills, Not Only Money • Romans 12:6–8 speaks of varied gifts—use them diligently. • Acts 9:36 — Tabitha made clothes for widows. Ideas: – Teach a free financial-planning class at church. – Repair cars for single parents. – Use administrative skills to strengthen ministry operations. Steward Possessions for Kingdom Impact • Acts 4:34–35 — Early believers sold property so none lacked. Application: – Open your home for small groups or missionaries on furlough. – Lend tools, vehicles, or equipment instead of letting them sit idle. – Write a will that blesses Gospel work after you’re gone. Worship through Sacrificial Giving • Philippians 4:18 — “An acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” • 2 Samuel 24:24 — “I will not offer … that which costs me nothing.” Challenge yourself: – Skip an annual vacation and fund a church plant. – Downsize to free resources for ministry. – Fast from luxury coffee and redirect the savings to Bibles. Practical First Steps This Week 1. List every regular expense; pray over how each line can honor Jesus. 2. Choose one possession to release for Kingdom use. 3. Schedule an hour to volunteer where your church needs help most. 4. Set up automated giving so faithfulness isn’t left to feeling. Encouragement to Press On The disciples called the perfume “waste,” yet Jesus called it “beautiful” (Matthew 26:10). When your stewardship flows from love for Him, nothing given is ever wasted. |
    |