Money is Only a Tool

Stop.

Set a timer for three minutes. Close your eyes and meditate on God’s call in your life. Decide to live into what this abundant life might look like for you,.

Listen.

They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life. – 1 Timothy 6:18-19

Reflect.

One common critique of the church is that we always talk about money. I realize that what they mean is that they think the church always asks for money. I try to redirect that assessment. We all know the power money has over our lives and how we spend so much time and energy on it. Why shouldn’t people of faith talk about money? How else do we put God and not money first in our lives? 

In 1 Timothy, believers who have financial wealth are instructed to share what they have so they can “take hold of the life that really is life”. Because of the power money wields, those with more money have a special opportunity to make life abound – not just for them, but for others. Their generosity puts money in its proper place while caring for the community. Believers know that talking about and using money is a faith practice. 

Money is not an end goal; it’s a tool for loving God and loving your neighbor. When you get that right, you take hold of the life that really is life.

Pray.

Gracious Creator, you have made all things and given me all I have. In you, I have more than enough. Teach me how to use these gifts so that others would be served and I would be freed from money’s power in my life. In these acts, I glorify you. Amen.

Carry On.

If someone asks you why you give to the church, what will you say? Try practicing your ten second speech on the importance of giving in your life. Find a way to give that speech this week!