A Good Steward – EGP Blog post from October 2, 2010

Luke 12:22–34 ()

[22] Then turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “So I tell you, don’t worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or clothes to wear. [23] For life consists of far more than food and clothing. [24] Look at the ravens. They don’t need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! [25] Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not! [26] And if worry can’t do little things like that, what’s the use of worrying over bigger things? [27] “Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. [28] And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won’t he more surely care for you? You have so little faith! [29] And don’t worry about food—what to eat and drink. Don’t worry whether God will provide it for you. [30] These things dominate the thoughts of most people, but your Father already knows your needs. [31] He will give you all you need from day to day if you make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. [32] “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom. [33] “Sell what you have and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven have no holes in them. Your treasure will be safe—no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. [34] Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.

Asking the Right Question

Instead of asking “Why should I give this away?” do You want me to ask, “Why shouldn’t I give this away?” Should I put the burden of proof on keeping rather than on giving? When money comes in, should giving rather than keeping be my default, the rule not the exception? Unless there’s a compelling reason to keep, should I normally give?”

Response

  1. What would you say “real life” is measured by? Read Luke 12:15 and James 2:12. How does this affect your previous answer?
  2. Discuss your thoughts on the Randy Alcorn quote.
  3. Luke 12:48 says, “Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given.” Comparing your economic status to that of the rest of the world, which category do you feel you fall in? How should that affect your giving from now on?
  4. Love is the desire to meet someone’s needs, and giving is a prime example of that. With that in mind, read Romans 13:8–10 several times throughout the week, and meditate on its application in your life.