In what ways can we prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth like the widow? The Widow’s Two Coins: A Quick Look “Then one poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amount to a small fraction of a denarius.” (Mark 12:42) • Her gift seemed insignificant in amount, yet Jesus counted it “more than all the others” (v. 43). • She gave not leftovers, but her whole livelihood—displaying a heart anchored in God, not possessions. What Spiritual Wealth Looks Like • Unreserved trust in God’s provision (Psalm 37:25). • A heart set on eternal treasures rather than temporary ones (Matthew 6:19-21). • Contentment that frees us from the grip of greed (Philippians 4:11-13). • Love expressed through generous action (1 John 3:17-18). • Joy in partnering with God’s work (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). Prioritizing Spiritual Wealth Today 1. Give God the First and Best • Set aside your giving before any spending (Proverbs 3:9-10). • Decide on a percentage or amount that stretches faith, not comfort (2 Corinthians 8:3). 2. Practice Daily Dependence • Begin each day acknowledging God as Provider (Matthew 6:11). • When a need arises, pray first, purchase second. 3. Cultivate Contentment • Regularly list non-material blessings you enjoy in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). • Fast from unnecessary purchases for a season; use the saved funds to bless someone. 4. Invest Time in Eternal Pursuits • Schedule Scripture reading, prayer, and fellowship as immovable appointments (Acts 2:42). • Volunteer skills and labor where the gospel is advanced (Galatians 6:9-10). 5. Simplify Possessions • Periodically declutter; donate quality items to those in need (Luke 3:11). • Resist upgrades driven only by envy or status (Hebrews 13:5). 6. Teach the Next Generation • Involve children in family giving decisions (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Share testimonies of God’s provision when you chose generosity over luxury. Promises That Sustain Generosity • “And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19) • “There is one who scatters, yet increases all the more.” (Proverbs 11:24) • “Instruct them to do good…to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age.” (1 Timothy 6:18-19) Living the Lesson Like the widow, we can regard every coin, hour, and talent as God’s, gladly returned for His glory. By choosing trust over security, simplicity over surplus, and kingdom investment over personal gain, we build spiritual wealth that can never perish or fade. |
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