In what ways can we prioritize God's will over financial concerns today? Setting the Scene: Amaziah’s Costly Question “Amaziah asked the man of God, ‘But what about the hundred talents I have given to the troops of Israel?’ ‘The LORD is able to give you much more than this,’ replied the man of God.” A king wrestles with a real financial loss—about four tons of silver—yet God calls him to obedience first and promises provision afterward. Timeless Principles for Today • God’s ownership: “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). Every dollar already belongs to Him. • God’s sufficiency: “The LORD is able to give you much more than this.” His resources eclipse any paycheck, portfolio, or pension. • God’s priority order: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). • Single-master living: “You cannot serve both God and money” (Luke 16:13). • Straight paths come from trusting, not calculating: Proverbs 3:5-6. Practical Ways to Put God’s Will Ahead of Finances • Start decisions in Scripture—verify every opportunity against clear commands. • Pray before you pay—invite the Spirit’s guidance on purchases, contracts, and career moves. • Budget generosity first—tithes and offerings off the top (Malachi 3:10). • Refuse dishonest gain—walk away from deals that compromise integrity (Proverbs 10:2). • Guard contentment—“Be content with what you have” (Hebrews 13:5). • Schedule Sabbath rest—trust God to provide while you cease striving (Exodus 20:8-11). • Keep accountability—trusted believers help spot greed and encourage obedience. Scripture Snapshots That Inspire • Abraham left prosperous Ur for an unseen land (Genesis 12:1-4). • The widow gave two small coins, “all she had to live on” (Luke 21:1-4). • Early believers sold property so “there was not a needy person among them” (Acts 4:32-35). Promises to Steady the Heart • “And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). • “I have been young and now am old, yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken” (Psalm 37:25). • “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Living It Out This Week Let Amaziah’s story remind us that no amount of money justifies sidelining God’s clear will. Obey first, trust His promise, and watch Him “give you much more than this”—maybe in funds, certainly in freedom, peace, and eternal reward. |