How do you react to all the news of economic uncertainty and political discord? Sometimes I want to throw up my hands in surrender, turn inward, and focus solely on my needs. 

But Jesus gives us a better example of how to react with the poor widow in Mark 12. She demonstrates total trust in God to provide by giving all she had. She didn’t worry. She just trusted. And shouldn’t we do the same – give and trust. Give and not worry. Give because It’s Not Your Money.

#trust #trust God #donotworry

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Don’t we all strive for Happiness? And, how often is happiness defined as getting a little bit more.  We say to ourselves, “Sure I have an iPhone 13 and a 65 inch TV and I’m grateful.  But, I can’t wait for the iPhone 14 and I need a 85 inch TV!”

Would that truly bring you happiness? Rather, isn’t it true that we feel happiest when we give? We learned at a very young age that it’s more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20: 35) So, Give! Give to those in need and to worthy causes and find greater happiness. Because, It’s Not Your Money!

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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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