In the second chapter of Mark, Jesus tells us he came for the sick. Here’s a tough question:
Have we become sick with fear because of our fallen investment values? Have we been ill with independence thinking our 401k’s and bank accounts will provide for us?

Remember in Deuteronomy chapter 8, God tells us that who we are and all that we have are from Him. The prescription now is to turn back to God and be good stewards of all He has given us – time, talent and treasure.

Because after all, it wasn’t our money to begin with.

In these challenging economic times our taxes are probably going to go up.

In Matthew 22, verse 21, Jesus says to pay to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s. So, is it enough to be resigned and pay our taxes while giving our hearts to God?

Rather, the real question is, “How can we give to Caesar in such a way that it transforms society for the good of the Kingdom?”

What can we do with our actions and resources, and the taxes we pay, to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and serve the least of these that Jesus talks about in Mt. 25?

Since after all – It’s not our money.

The widow in Luke 21 was commended for giving her all – her very livelihood. What about us?

Most of us give from our surplus.

The widow had no surplus. She showed complete confidence in God’s provision for her. Why not us?

The truth is we are totally dependent on God for the very breath we take, much less the money we have. Let’s put God at the top of our budget in total confidence that He will provide for us.

After all – It’s not our money.

What does the parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12: 16-21 tell us about retirement? Remember this man wanted to store up his goods in ever larger barns and then sit back, relax, eat, drink, and be merry. Except God would demand his life that night.

So should we not store up retirement funds and plan for leisure in retirement? I think rather we are to acknowledge that all we have is from God, and as good stewards, we are to use these resources for the good of His kingdom.

No hoarding resources or wasting talents. What can you do with your time, talent and treasure to serve God by serving His people?

Because after all, It’s not your money!