Why is it important to recognize when we have "more than enough" resources? the verse “...the people have brought more than enough to do the work the LORD has commanded us to do.” (Exodus 36:5b–7) what was happening • Israel’s craftsmen were building the tabernacle exactly as God instructed (Exodus 35–40). • When the call for materials went out, men and women kept bringing free-will offerings every morning. • Moses finally had to tell them to stop, because “what they already had was more than enough to perform all the work” (v. 7). why noticing abundance matters 1. God’s provision is highlighted • Recognizing the overflow turns our focus from our effort to His generosity (2 Corinthians 9:8). • Every good gift comes “from above” (James 1:17); seeing “more than enough” makes that unmistakable. 2. Contentment is protected • “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6-8). • When we admit we already have plenty, envy and coveting lose their grip (Exodus 20:17; Luke 12:15). 3. Greed is restrained • The rich fool in Luke 12 thought surplus existed only to be stored; God called him a fool because he ignored eternity. • Saying “more than enough” draws a line that keeps us from hoarding and from the snare of loving money (1 Timothy 6:9-10). 4. Stewardship is sharpened • Extra resources can be redirected to Kingdom purposes—just as Israel’s excess went no further once the need was met. • Paul urged believers to supply others’ lack so “there may be equality” (2 Corinthians 8:13-15). 5. Generosity is unleashed • When our barns feel full, we’re freed to open the doors. Acts 20:35 reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” • Barnabas sold a field and met saints’ needs (Acts 4:36-37); he had “more than enough” and used it for the Body. 6. Worship is deepened • Every time we pause to see the overflow, gratitude rises: “Bless the LORD…who satisfies you with good things” (Psalm 103:2-5). • Israel’s abundance for the tabernacle erupted from hearts stirred by worship (Exodus 35:21-22). 7. Dependence stays healthy • Proverbs 30:8-9 pleads for “neither poverty nor riches.” Recognizing sufficiency keeps us leaning on God, not our stockpiles. living it out today • Take inventory—time, talents, finances, relationships—and honestly mark where God has already given “more than enough.” • Redirect any recognized surplus toward ministry, missions, or meeting urgent needs around you. • Practice verbal gratitude; tell others how God has provided beyond what was required. • Set personal limits that free you to give once those limits are reached, echoing Moses’ call to halt further collecting. Embracing the moment we reach “more than enough” turns abundance into an act of worship, curbs self-centered accumulation, and channels God’s gifts into His work—all for His glory and the good of His people. |
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