Without a proper understanding of how money fits into the kingdom of God, the idea of giving generously to help others can make us uncomfortable at best and fearful at worst. The world sees money as something to be pursued and accumulated, but this is an unscriptural view of financial wealth. When we trust God in our finances, He honors that trust and abundantly blesses us in return. When our motives are pure God reveals to us that, by working with our hands in an honorable profession, we’ll have plenty to give to those in need.

The spirit of mammon causes the fear of giving and tells us to hang on to our money and hoard it. Mammon’s goal is to get us to trust money more than God, and to scare us into thinking that God’s promises concerning financial wealth won’t come to pass for us if we do give. This spirit comes from the devil; God gives us the spirit of love, power, and a sound mind to understand the importance of giving.

The apostle Paul labored at different jobs to earn money to bless others and support the weak. In his travels, he preached the importance of sharing wealth with others, and revealed that it is more blessed to give than to receive. We can show grace to others in various ways, but nothing seems to get people’s attention more effectively than blessing them financially. Money is simply a tool, and when we sow it as seed into others’ lives, God gives back to us in good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

God is the perfect giver who gave us the ultimate priceless gift of His Son. He promises to supply all our needs, including our financial needs, according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. All will be well when we trust Him in our finances. No one can outgive God!

Prayer:

God, You teach us what we need to know about money, how to handle it, and how it fits into the truly important things in Your kingdom. You love us enough to reveal the truth about giving and how it empowers both the giver and the receiver. Thank You for the understanding You bring in this area. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Scriptures:

• Ephesians 4:28
• 2 Timothy 1:7
• Acts 20:35
• Luke 6:38
• John 3:16
• Philippians 4:19