In what ways can we prioritize giving over material wealth in our lives? Seeing What Jesus Sees in the Treasury “Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into it. Many rich people put in large sums.” Mark 12:41 - Jesus looks past totals and notices motives. - His position “opposite” the treasury reminds us He evaluates giving differently than we do. - The scene calls us to shift focus from the amount we keep to the devotion we show. Why the Widow’s Gift Still Speaks Today Mark 12:42-44 shows a widow dropping “two small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a cent,” yet Jesus declares she “put in more than all the others.” - Her gift cost her comfort, proving that kingdom math values sacrifice over surplus. - She trusted God’s provision more than her remaining balance. - Her example affirms that Scripture is literally true: God measures generosity by faith, not figure. Practical Ways to Put Giving First - Redirect firstfruits, not leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). Set giving at the top of the budget before any other line item. - Automate generosity. Schedule transfers or checks the same day income arrives. - Downsize lifestyle to upsize kingdom impact—sell unused items, cancel unneeded subscriptions, funnel the savings to ministry (Luke 12:15). - Adopt a “one in, one out” rule for possessions: every new purchase prompts a donation. - Involve the whole household: let children choose a missionary family or local outreach to support with allowances. - Practice spontaneous giving: keep cash or gift cards ready for needs God highlights (Acts 20:35). - Give time and talents in addition to treasure—serve, mentor, host, design, repair. Promises That Encourage Sacrificial Generosity - “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21 - “God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7 - “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven.” Malachi 3:10 - “Store up treasure for yourselves as a firm foundation for the coming age.” 1 Timothy 6:18-19 These verses assure that giving now secures eternal dividends and invites God’s present provision. Fruit Produced When We Open Our Hands - Deepened trust in the Lord’s faithfulness. - Freedom from the grip of materialism. - Resources redirected to spread the gospel. - A testimony that points others to Christ’s sufficiency. - Joy that outlasts every purchase or portfolio. |
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