How many people do we see everyday in our society who have exceeding talent and tremendous success and wealth. And yet, they’re not happy. Like the rich man in Matthew 19, they know something is missing in their lives.

Jesus tells us to detach ourselves from earthly possessions. They don’t bring us true happiness and they’re often the leading cause of increased stress in our lives.

Get rid of them! Give to the poor. Follow after Jesus. And give gladly because It’s Not Your Money.

#success #wealth #happiness

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Psalm 112 says those who fear the Lord are blessed and generous. They give lavishly to the poor.

I love that – give lavishly. Hasn’t God given to us lavishly? Does he not lavish us with mercy and peace and forgiveness? Aren’t our talents and abilities given to us so that we are able to serve and prosper?

Then in response, we are to be generous. We are to exude joy. We are to give lavishly to the poor. We are to give because it’s not our money.

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My retirement plan is way off track, my business is struggling, my relationships are strained. I hear myself crying out like Peter in Matthew 14:30, “Lord, save me!”  And, Jesus’ response? “Oh, you of little faith! Why do you doubt?” And the truth is business goes on, and the bills get paid, and I add to my 401k when I can. I should have more concern for others and doing what God wants me to do – and less about the money. Because, after all, it’s not my money!

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Like the rich man in Mark 10 we must decide who Jesus is and where He ranks in our life. We also face a decision about our possessions. Are they equally important to us as our relationship to Jesus?

If so, doesn’t that impair and cloud our relationship with God? Are we willing to sell our possessions and rid ourselves of unhealthy attachments that distance us from deepening our trust in God?

Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Trust in God’s provision for you. Find your treasure in Jesus. Detach because it’s not your money.

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Moses instructs the Israelites about their choices–life or death. In Deuteronomy chapter 30, he exhorts them to choose life by following God’s law. It’s like that with your money.

You have choices on how you spend. How often do those choices result in stress and worry about whether there’ll be enough money at the end of the month? Instead, choose to follow God’s law on tithing.

Tithing is giving of your first fruits. It’s choosing life. It just works.

So, choose to give and claim God’s abundant gifts of life. Tithe and rest in the knowledge that It’s Not Your Money.