The Bible has a lot to say about money. However, Christians often cringe at mixing finances and their faith. Money is important; almost every decision in life is made with it in mind. It can be a great tool or a life controlling evil. “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith. and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” (I Timothy 6:10). A life of greed that always seeks to gain produces a selfish stingy spirit. All evil grows from this selfish root. The spirit of the world is to gain as much as possible. If great wealth is achieved then the world cries, “Success”. But Jesus said, “How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:23). Not that having wealth is a sin, but for many whom do they have their heaven here below and seek not the Heavenly kingdom from above. They do not have a sense of need. We learn in Mark chapter ten that the rich young ruler would not come to Christ because he had great possessions. “Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:24). Do not seek to gain worldly riches but “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven”. (Matthew 6:20).

    From our text above Jesus’ teachings are in contrast to the world system. To the Christian “godliness with contentment is great gain”. (I Timothy 6:6). The very spirit of Christianity is to give. Our Savior certainly gave all He had for us. All that you have has come from God. We are to be good stewards of what He has given us. Also the spirit of Christ is a giving spirit. Of course if we give we will receive a greater gift in Heaven. But our text also teaches that “men shall give into your bosom. For the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again”. If you leave behind a legacy of giving, the time will come when you are in need and those you have helped will be at your side with gifts of benevolence. Do unto to others as you would have men do unto you. Gladly help those in need and fulfill the will of Christ. “Give and it shall be given unto you.” If you sow abundantly you will also reap abundantly.

    Are we to give anytime someone ask? Of course not, the devil has many beggars robbing from God’s people. We are to be “wise as serpents, and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16). The Holy Spirit will guide you as you give. Is all of your income spent for yourself? Pray and ask God to show you someone to help. He will, and if you help, it will bring joy to your heart. “But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” (I John 3:17).
                                                                                                                                                                                                          Josh Greene
                                                                                                                                                                                                               9-6-09